Disabled adults learn and work in their communities. That right is under threat
Advocates are concerned that the integration mandate established by the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Olmstead decision is under threat. This mandate ensures that people with disabilities have the right to live, learn, and work in their communities rather than in institutions.
Why it matters
The potential erosion of these protections could impact the independence and quality of life for over 8 million Americans who rely on community-based disability services.
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BRICK, N.J. — Cody and Kaleigh Brendle grew up near the Jersey Shore, going out on their grandfather's boat on weekends, learning to swim and riding bikes together.
"I was the annoying little sister — like, 'Wait for me, wait for me!'" said Kaleigh. She remembered standing by in awe at summer camp as her fearless older brother scaled rock-climbing walls and went down waterslides. "I was like, 'Wow, he's doing all this — maybe I can try.'"
The siblings said they've always relied on each other for support navigating life as two blind kids, now adults. Cody, 27, lives at home with his parents, and Kaleigh, 23, is starting law school across the country.
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