Washington, DC – The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) recognized Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) for her leadership on behalf of the disability community by honoring her with their “Justice for All” award at a bipartisan event today celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
 
“I am proud to accept the ‘Justice for All’ Award,” said Rep. McMorris Rodgers.  “The birth of my son Cole – who was born with Down syndrome – gave me a new perspective on life and a new passion in Congress.  I’ve used this passion to advocate for policies ranging from increasing access to a quality education for special needs students to creating more opportunities for disabled Americans to live independently through the establishment of ABLE Accounts.”

In addition to Rep. McMorris Rodgers, AAPD bestowed awards on Rep. Patrick Kennedy (D-RI); former Senator and ADA author Lowell Weicker; President and CEO of Bayer Corporation and Bayer MaterialScience Greg Babe and Edwin Black, author of War against the Weak.

“We’re delighted to honor Representatives Kennedy and McMorris Rodgers, Lowell Weicker, Greg Babe and Edwin Black for their significant work in the political, economic and social empowerment of the disability community as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act,” said Andrew J. Imparato, President and CEO of AAPD.

“Twenty years ago, disabled Americans were destined to a life of confinement – to constant supervision and control,” said Rep. McMorris Rodgers.  “I want the next 20 years to be years of empowerment and independence.  I look forward to working with AAPD and my colleagues on future policies that facilitate independence among disabled Americans and give them the resources they need to succeed.”