Johnson County is set to celebrate the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and kick off National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) on September 27, 2024. The event will be held from 3 to 6 p. m. at the Pedestrian Mall in downtown Iowa City, with programming starting at 4 p. m.

This year's NDEAM theme, "Everyone Can Work," highlights the ongoing impact of the ADA and the barriers that remain for individuals with disabilities in the workforce. Sarah Martinez, an expert in employment challenges for people with disabilities and owner of Advancing Futures, LLC, will deliver a keynote address. Additionally, the recipients of the Terry Cunningham Community Award and Bill Reagan Vitality Award will be announced, recognizing outstanding contributions to the community. The ADA, signed into law on July 26, 1990, ensures civil rights protections for individuals with disabilities and promotes equal opportunities in various sectors. NDEAM aims to educate the public about disability employment issues and celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities.

The City of Iowa City is committed to ensuring access to its programs and services for all residents, in compliance with the ADA.