HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 145

Rep. Mueller offered the following resolution:

A resolution to declare July 26, 2025, as National Disability Independence Day in the state of Michigan.

Whereas, July 26, 2025, marks 35 years since a major milestone in our country?s journey toward expanding access, opportunity, and independence for individuals with disabilities. It commemorates the anniversary of landmark federal action that helps safeguard the rights of people with disabilities; and

Whereas, National Disability Independence Day serves as a meaningful reminder of the progress made over decades to remove physical, social, and attitudinal barriers, to challenge stigma and outdated perceptions, and to help foster communities that are more welcoming, and supportive of individuals with disabilities; and

Whereas, It is estimated by the United States Census Bureau that nearly one in four, or seventy million adults, live with a disability in America. They also estimate that over 2.3 million adults in Michigan live with a disability; and

Whereas, For more than three decades, efforts to enhance accessibility in workplaces, schools, transportation systems, and public spaces have empowered millions of individuals to live more independently and participate fully in their communities; and

Whereas, Michigan?s vibrant community of disability advocates, service providers, and organizations have long worked to promote awareness, accessibility, and opportunities for individuals with disabilities across the state; and

Whereas, For individuals with disabilities, independence is more than just self-sufficiency. It includes the ability to make personal decisions, access opportunities in education and employment, engage fully in community life, and live with dignity and self-direction; and

Whereas, Every person deserves respect, dignity, and the opportunity to live a self-directed life, free from discrimination and limitation; and

Whereas, National Disability Independence Day invites reflection on the progress made toward building more welcoming and accessible communities, and celebrates the contributions of individuals of all abilities; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare July 26, 2025, as National Disability Independence Day in the state of Michigan. We encourage all residents to recognize and celebrate the contributions, resilience, and achievements of individuals with disabilities in every part of life.