September 3, 2020 | Issue #57
Remembering the ADA in Times of Crisis

As we celebrate Labor Day this year, in a year different than all others before it, it is clearer than ever that work, employment is a need, not a luxury.

Thirty years ago this past July 26, President George H. W. Bush signed the ADA which among other things made it unlawful to discriminate in employment against a qualified individual with a disability. Continue reading.
We've been chosen by Stop & Shop in Watertown!

Have you heard the news? The Arc of Massachusetts has been selected as the beneficiary of the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program! Each time the $2.50 reusable Community Bag is purchased at the Stop & Shop at 700 Pleasant Street, Watertown during the month of September, we will receive a $1 donation.
Featured
The Arc and the Disability Law Center are working to object to the proposed delay in the implementation of the abuse registry. Meetings are currently happening but we ask that you reach out directly to Governor Baker using this template. Ask him not to delay implementation of this law.
Registered voters who cannot effectively, privately, and independently complete a paper vote by mail ballot as a result of a vision disability, dexterity disability, or other disability that prevents you from effectively reading or writing print. You are entitled to receive access to an accessible electronic vote by mail ballot as an accommodation from the Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Webinars
On September 8, Amanda Green and Teri Williams Valentine will join Kerry to discuss secondary transition during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's (DESE) newly released guidance on Turning 22. Register here.
On September 15, Kerry will be joined by Cathy Hickey, M.Ed, a Family Navigator at the DESE program at Brockton Area Arc. They will be discussing the topic of what questions you should ask when you have support staff enter your homes during these times. Register here.
Over the last two years, the Disability Law Center (DLC) has been working to improve community integration access for individuals attending Day Habilitation Centers across Massachusetts. Join Hillary Dunn-Stanisz and Rick Glassman to learn more about this important project.
Learn from a group of self-advocates and their families on how they transformed their traditional day services into individualized support. Presenters will provide discussion of the before and after, how they decided the right supports, and funding sources utilized. Register for this presentation here.
Sponsor Spotlight

The work of The Arc of Massachusetts is made possible by generous donations from people like you, friend. None of our advocacy, education, and outreach would be possible without your continued support. Please consider giving today.