NYAPRS Note: Today is the anniversary of the landmark Olmstead v L.C. decision from the Supreme Court in 1999. This was a milestone case for people with disabilities because the court determined, under the Americans with Disabilities Act, people with disabilities should be allowed to live in the most integrated setting rather than in institutions, and states have a mandate to offer people support services to help them stay in their communities of choice. This case began in Geogia, with two women, Lois Curtis and later Elaine Wilson, who were dealing with mental health challenges and intellectual and developmental disabilities. These two women had spent years going in and out of institutions while requesting for supports to stay in their homes. When Georgia failed to provide these supports these two women sued the state of Georgia and its commissioner of human resources, Tommy Olmstead. This case went all the way to the Supreme Court which ruled in favor of Lois Curtis, establishing the right to services in the community.
The Olmstead decision is one of the most important court determinations for the rights of those with disabilities, helping millions of people regain dignity while achieving recovery.. It is the basis for our right to access community-based care and offers a way to get justice when people are prevented from living in communities of choice. Today we celebrate the Olmstead decision while knowing there is still much work to be done to get more people back into their communities of choice with appropriate support. NYAPRS continues to fight for rights and quality services for people living with disabilities.
The Bazelon Cener is hosting an event today to commemorate this historic decision. Join us today from 12pm-1:30pm ET for the Bazelon Center’s annual Olmstead v. L.C. (Lois Curtis) event. You will hear from leading disability rights advocates about the progress, challenges and opportunities ahead. I hope you will join us. Details & registration link below.
Email communications@bazelon.org for additional accessibility needs
Register for free HERE