Message from Commissioner McCosh: Your voices are being heard

Dear Disability Community Members,

Today I want to use this space to lift up the voices of Boston residents who are showing strength and unity by peacefully protesting the events playing out across this country. Your message is being heard by City leaders. Read Mayor Walsh’s remarks on the protests in Boston for Monday, June 1, 2020.

Mayor Walsh has made equity a top priority as we move toward reopening Boston following the COVID-19 pandemic. He has created the COVID-19 Health Inequities Task Force that is working to ensure all Boston residents are included in the City’s recovery. The Mayor recently appointed someone from the disability community to serve on this Task Force, which will help to bring awareness of the multiple factors that impact residents in underserved and underrepresented communities.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the ADA, which came on the heels of the Civil Rights movement. The disability community is committed to the belief that civil rights are human rights, and followed the example of civil rights leaders during their fight for equality. On July 22nd, the City of Boston will be hosting a virtual event in recognition of the ADA. Our theme this year is to elevate equity, diversity, and inclusion in the Disability Rights Movement. 

Our office will continue to be here to support our diverse disability community. I’d like to remind everyone that COVID-19 is still a risk throughout Boston, so please continue to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others: stay six feet away from others when possible, always wear a face covering, and wash your hands often. Please reach out to us if you need assistance. You can dial 311 to reach City Hall, or call us at 617-635-3682. Our email is disability@boston.gov, and the latest updates are available at Boston.gov.

Until next week, please stay informed, stay home, and stay healthy.

Sincerely,

Commissioner Kristen McCosh