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Marin County proclaims Disability Pride Month and highlights ADA history
Summary
The Marin County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution declaring July 2025 Disability Pride Month, commemorating the Americans with Disabilities Act and spotlighting local accessibility services, exhibits and concerns about federal funding for disability supports.
The Marin County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution on July 15, 2025, proclaiming July 2025 Disability Pride Month and commemorating the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The resolution recognizes the role of the ADA in guaranteeing civil rights and public access and spotlights local events, an art exhibit and county accessibility services. Suzanne Levine, introduced in the record as “IST Grama Manager in digital accessibility,” summarized the resolution and the law’s protections, noting the ADA was signed on 07/26/1990.
Why it matters: the proclamation is largely symbolic, but speakers used the item to outline ongoing gaps in services and to press county officials to maintain and strengthen supports. Ted Jackson, CEO of the Marin Center for Independent Living, and Sean Stevens, Marin County Veterans Service Officer, described local services that depend on sustained funding and warned that federal funding changes could reduce local capacity.
Speakers and local organizations who addressed the board included Cheryl White of Cedars and Tim Park of Marin Ventures, both noting an art exhibit at the Civic Center showcasing work by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Jonathan Freeman, who said he contributed to ADA rule responses in 1991, urged continued inclusion and described the ADA as "a common sense law." Several county supervisors praised the presentations and thanked participating artists and advocates.
Supervisor Milton Peters moved to adopt the resolution; Supervisor Colbert seconded. The board approved the proclamation by voice vote. President Sackett invited participants to a group photo and encouraged the public to view the exhibition and timeline related to disability history on display at the Civic Center.
The presenters emphasized that while the ADA established broad protections, gaps remain in housing, healthcare, and transportation for people with disabilities. County staff and advocates highlighted local initiatives — including the VA Vet Center services and arts programs — as examples of ongoing efforts to improve access.
The board encouraged residents to view the galleries and timeline exhibiting local disability history and art and to participate in related events this summer.
