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Conference Highlights Issues Facing Disabled Americans

Disability rights took center stage at Millersville University on Sept. 17-18.

Disability rights will take center stage at Millersville University on Sept. 17-18. Almost 25 years ago, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 ushered in a new era of accessibility and civil rights protection for individuals with disabilities.

Since then much has been accomplished, but much remains to be done. In anticipation of the 25th anniversary of the historic ADA federal legislation, the ADA Legacy Project, a nonprofit organization, has launched a “traveling exhibit” to celebrate the achievements and continue to educate people about the ADA and disability rights. The ADA bus, emblazoned with the phrase “The Road to Freedom” on the side with an American flag backdrop, will be making stops across the country.

Millersville University will be the fourth stop on the ADA’s Legacy Tour and will host a conference focusing on advocacy and awareness of issues facing disabled individuals.

On opening day, September 17, a screening of the documentary, “Fixed: The Science/Fiction of Human Enhancement,” is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. in McComsey Hall. The award-winning film features the perspectives of five people with disabilities who have achieved great success. Among those are Millersville alumnus Dr. Hugh Herr, a bionics engineer who directs the MIT Media Lab, and journalist John Hockenberry.

The next day will feature presentations and workshops by prominent disability rights leaders. A traveling exhibit offers a photo perspective on the battle for disability rights.

Events are free and open to the public. For the full schedule of events or  register, visit ADA Legacy Tour MU.

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5 INTERESTING THINGS IN THE @millersvilleuniversityarchives <br /> <br /> The 8th floor of the McNairy Library is home to the Millersville University Archives and Special Collections department, which collects and preserves historical pieces such as photos, books, memorabilia and records. Archival pieces allow students a deeper understanding of past time periods and our school’s history. <br /> <br /> 1. Collection of Carl Van Vechten Portraits<br /> <br /> Millersville is home to an extensive and unique collection of original copies of portraits taken by photographer and writer Carl Van Vechten. This image of Nora Holt will be on loan to the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery from April 26 to Feb 23, 2025 in Washington, DC for the exhibition “Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900-1939.”<br /> <br /> 2. Bust of Edward Brooks <br /> <br /> Edward Brooks was one of the first original faculty members of Millersville, serving as a mathematics professor in 1855 and then president from 1866-1883. This sculpture was cast in 1910 by Clyde Bathurst, shortly before Brooks’ death in 1912.<br /> <br /> 3. Red Glass Globes from Old Main<br /> <br /> Old Main was the first building built on the plot of land that is now Millersville University. These red glass globes were positioned around exits of the building, acting as exit signs do today. <br /> <br /> 4. “Martyr’s Mirror” Book<br /> This is a religious text from the Mennonite and Anabaptist Christian communities about nonviolent martyrs. This particular volume is the first English translation that was published. The book was published in Lancaster County and was donated by a Millersville student by the name of A. CP. Frick in June 1857. This is monumental because that is only two years after the institution was founded and is the earliest documented donation. <br /> <br /> 5. Psychological Testing Materials <br /> <br /> These psychological testing materials depict the ever-changing standards of healthcare. These kits contain tests, activities and paperwork used to diagnose and determine psychological health. These were donated by Moya Kinnealey, a retired psychologist and community member.
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