As United Spinal Association celebrates our 75th anniversary this year, it has provided us an opportunity to take stock of all that we have achieved over those 75 years, what we continue to provide for the SCI/D, disability, and veterans communities each and every day, and what we fight for as we seek to build an inclusive world.
Recently, the United States Senate formally recognized United Spinal Association on its 75th anniversary with the unanimous passage of a Senate resolution, S. Res. 278. We are grateful to Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) for sponsoring this resolution.
The resolution highlights several key moments in United Spinal’s history. For example, did you know that in 1948, United Spinal members advocated for and helped to pass the first accessible housing bill in the United States, which helped build homes for paralyzed veterans? Or that in 1968, United Spinal members pushed for the passage of the Architectural Barriers Act, which guarantees that federally-funded buildings and facilities must be accessible for wheelchair users and all people with disabilities?
It was United Spinal that fought for and won a legal battle with New York City that ended in 1985 with an agreement to make all city buses accessible and established a paratransit system for those unable to access mass transit. The provisions of this agreement became the blueprint for the transportation provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, making transportation accessible to people with disabilities nationwide.
The resolution formally honors United Spinal’s continued role in supporting and advocating for people with spinal cord injuries and neurological disorders, as well as all veterans. It recognizes United Spinal’s proven programs and services, the resources, one-on-one assistance, and peer support we provide, and the advocacy work we do on behalf of the SCI/D, disability, and veterans communities.
Not every organization is able to secure this kind of formal recognition. It is due to the relationships United Spinal has built with members of Congress over many years, and the continued engagement of United Spinal advocates with their elected officials. Our community should be proud of all that we have accomplished, and that United Spinal is held in such esteem by our elected officials. As we continue to celebrate our 75th anniversary year, let’s keep up the good work!
For more information on United Spinal’s federal advocacy priorities, please visit our Action Center.
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