Celebrating Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month
This is a special post written by Charles Warren, Curriculum Developer at Triangle. Charlie is also a member of Triangle’s Racial Equity Committee. As part of our commitment to the work of our Racial Equity Committee, we will be sharing more information with you on subjects related to racial equity and disability justice. This post continues our series dedicated to calling attention to the contributions of people with disabilities to American history.
September 15-October 15 is Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month! This month, Triangle’s Racial Equity Committee (REC) is celebrating Hispanic and Latinx Americans who are focused on increasing awareness and empowerment for people with disabilities. The REC’s posts strive to honor intersectionality and highlight people of color with disabilities whose lives cross over multiple identities and issues ALL at the same time.
Tony Coelho
A Trailblazer for Disability Rights and Hispanic Heritage
As we honor National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) and Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s important to recognize the contributions of Tony Coelho, a pioneering advocate for disability rights and a proud member of the Hispanic community.
Born on June 15, 1942, in California, Tony Coelho grew up in a Portuguese-American family. His life took a significant turn when he was diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of 16. This diagnosis came with various challenges, including societal stigma and discrimination. However, Coelho’s determination and resilience set the stage for his future advocacy work.
Coelho’s political career began in earnest when he served as a staff member for Congressman Bernie Sisk. His dedication and hard work eventually led him to run for office, and in 1978, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Coelho’s personal experiences with epilepsy fueled his passion for disability rights, and he became a leading voice in the movement.
One of Coelho’s most significant achievements is his role as the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Signed into law in 1990, the ADA is a landmark piece of legislation that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, education, transportation, and public accommodations. The ADA has been instrumental in advancing the rights and opportunities for people with disabilities across the United States.
Coelho’s vision for inclusion extends beyond legislative achievements. He has been a tireless advocate for the employment of people with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that value diversity. Coelho’s work has helped to break down barriers and open doors for countless individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have the same opportunities to succeed as anyone else.
Tony Coelho’s legacy is one of advocacy and profound impact. His contributions to disability rights transformed the lives of millions of Americans, and his work continues to inspire new generations of advocates. As we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month and Hispanic Heritage Month, Coelho’s story is an opportunity to remind ourselves of how much progress has been made, that big things are possible, and that the work of building an inclusive society is ongoing.