The ongoing struggle by people with disabilities to gain full citizenship is an important part of our heritage. The Disability Rights Movement shares many similarities with other 20th-century civil rights struggles by those who have been denied equality, independence, autonomy, and full access to society.

Like efforts organized to break barriers such as "Whites Only" and "Men Only", the Disability Rights Movement has resulted from people coming together in ways that allow them to compare experience and forge relationships. For the disability community, this has taken place primarily in Centers of Independent Living (also known as Independent Living Centers), which started in Berkeley, CA in the 1970's. Independent Living Centers are typically non-residential, private, non-profit, consumer-controlled, community-based organizations providing services and advocacy by and for persons with all types of disabilities. Their goal is to assist individuals with disabilities to achieve their maximum potential within their families and communities.

Also, Independent Living Centers serve as a strong advocacy voice on a wide range of national, state and local issues. They work to assure physical and programmatic access to housing, employment, transportation, communities, recreational facilities, and health and social services. These are just a few of the services offered. There are nearly 500 ILC's in the USA and provide invaluable resources for individuals with disabilities, their families, advocates, and allies.

To find the Center in your area, consult these databases:
ILRU Directory
Virtual CIL