June 22, 2020 marks the 21st anniversary of the Olmstead Decision and an opportunity to celebrate a pivotal milestone for community living.
Ignited by the actions of Lois Curtis and Elaine Wilson to claim their independence, and propelled by advocacy from the disability community, the Olmstead Decision paved the way to community living for thousands of individuals with disabilities.
The Olmstead lawsuit started when Curtis and Wilson were confined to living in an institutional setting despite doctors agreeing that the two women were capable of living in the community with appropriate supports.
The Supreme Court’s decision found the unjustified segregation of people with disabilities to be a form of unlawful discrimination and a violation of Title II of the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Olmstead affirmed that public entities must provide community-based service options to individuals with disabilities when:
- Such services are appropriate
- The person does not oppose living in the community
- The placement can be reasonably accommodating, taking into account the available state resources and the needs of others who are receiving disability services
Consumer Direct Care Network is proud to provide the services and supports which help individuals with disabilities remain in their homes and community. On this anniversary, we thank Lois Curtis and Elaine Wilson for their efforts in advancing community living options.