The 27th Anniversary of the ADA and Larry’s Legacy

Dear DRA supporters,

Today marks the 27th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  DRA is proud to have, since our inception in 1993, used the ADA to protect the civil rights of the nearly 37 million people in our country who have a disability.  On this important day in history, we write to update you on new cases filed, celebrating Larry’s legacy, and to share news of an important award recognizing Larry and DRA’s work.

With gratitude,

Sid, Mary-Lee, Michelle, Kate and the DRA Family

Filing New Cases

DRA continues to hold organizations and corporations accountable, using the law to protect the rights of people with disabilities. This month, we took on the popular ride-sharing service Uber. In New York City, Uber offers fewer than 100 wheelchair-accessible vans in a fleet of more than 58,000 vehicles. This further restricts the transportation options for wheelchair users and limits their ability to travel around the city. Read more about the Uber case on our site, and stay tuned for another DRA suit to be filed tomorrow.

Celebrating Larry’s Legacy

One year since the passing of DRA’s co-founder Larry Paradis, we celebrate Larry’s legacy.  Thanks to all who joined us last Tuesday, July 18th.  We enjoyed good food, great company and learned about the first precedent-setting case funded through the Larry Paradis Legacy Fund: the recent Uber case.  We hope you enjoy photos of the event on Facebook. On our website, you can learn more about the Legacy Fund, and how you can support it.

Paul G. Hearne Award for Disability Rights

We are thrilled to share the wonderful news that the American Bar Association will posthumously honor Larry Paradis with the Paul G. Hearne Award for Disability Rights.  This prestigious award, created in 1999 and co-sponsored by Starbucks Coffee Co., recognizes individuals who have “performed exemplary service in furthering the rights, dignity, and access to justice for people with disabilities.”  The award will be presented at the commission’s reception for lawyers with disabilities during the 2017 ABA meeting in New York on August 14th.  We welcome you to join us for this important celebration.  The media release on DRA’s website includes further information about the reception and how to attend.