Transcript
Transcript begins.
A democracy is only truly of the people if it is accessible by all. Inside the preamble of the Americans with Disabilities Act is a promise for disabled Americans. It reads we have the right to full participation, equality of opportunity, economic self-sufficiency, and independent living. And yet today, 36 years after the passage of the ADA and 250 years after the founding of our country, 60% to 80% of polling places are still inaccessible in some way, shape, or form.
The American Dream is not ADA accessible. When we think about what our democracy needs, it’s amplifying those voices to actually create a democracy that centers those most impacted. And it is my hope that in the investments that we make and in the work that we do here to strengthen our democracy, that by the next major anniversary, Americans with disabilities around the country will be enfranchised fully and able to fully access their right to vote.
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End of transcript.
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“The American Dream is not ADA accessible. When we think about what our democracy needs, it’s amplifying those voices to actually create a democracy that centers those most impacted.”
Rebecca Cokley
Additional Of The People Voices
Mark Bradford
Mark Bradford, visual artist and Ford Foundation trustee, reflects on the role of art as a tool to excavate hidden histories, challenge narratives, and expand what we see as representation.
John Echohawk
Native American Rights Fund executive director John Echohawk reflects on the necessity of recognizing Tribal sovereignty and Indigenous history in America’s story.
Marielena Hincapié
Marielena Hincapié, nationally recognized legal strategist and American immigration movement builder, reflects on democracy as a collective obligation, where the opportunity to thrive and belong is available to all.
Imara Jones
Imara Jones, journalist and CEO of TransLash Media, reflects on the power of narratives, a free press, and the necessity of including trans voices in America’s story.
Amaha Kassa
Amaha Kassa, executive director of African Communities Together, explores how democracy relies on our collective ability to care for and govern one another, arguing that real progress begins at the grassroots level, not in the halls of power.
Lisa Kim
Lisa Kim, Ford gallery director, reflects on art as a vehicle for connection and celebration, one that allows us to acknowledge, challenge, and embrace America’s complex history.
Lourdes Lopez
Lourdes Lopez, artist and Ford Foundation trustee, reflects on the role of art in upholding America’s democratic infrastructure and the need to protect performing arts.
Ken Ward
Ken Ward, Mountain State Spotlight’s editor-in-chief, reflects on the important role that local journalism plays in centering and uplifting community voices.
