OSWEGO – Legislator James Karasek led the charge yesterday speaking on behalf of People with Disabilities, in honor of Americans with Disabilities Awareness Day during the monthly County Legislature meeting, Thursday, July 14.
Americans with Disabilities Awareness Day is recognized annually on July 26. Karasek read aloud a proclamation before the Legislature; also sharing his struggles since birth on what life was like as a person with disabilities in a world that had yet to conform to his strengths and weaknesses.
“I was born with disabilities and struggled a great deal from school. It was rough for me; it actually involved my parents being advocates. Gym class was a failure and they had to constantly get involved. I went through seven surgeries on my legs and feet. I spent a lot of time in a wheelchair, and eventually as the world began to change a little bit, I had great support that allowed me to continue my education, fulfill my needs, become independent and live a lifestyle that works for me,” Karasek said. “My wife and I have been married 40 years this October and I turn 70 in two more months, and I have no regrets for the path that I’ve followed. And that is in part because of people that recognize those with disabilities as having the capability to contribute to the betterment of society.”
He also acknowledged the accommodations that the county and both the cities of Oswego and Fulton have done and/or are currently establishing to further help People with Disabilities.
“I really appreciate the fact that once a year if only for this moment, we get a chance to speak with disabilities, to share with you guys and the press the amazing job that this county has done and continues to do – and continues to grow forward on recognizing the value of people with disabilities,” Karasek said. “ I’ve got a lot of support – you people are to thank for that, you people are the ones that make changes in the community, [and] you people are the ones that recognize what needs to be done and speak up for the people who can’t do that. And I can tell you that People with Disabilities – we really appreciate that!”
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, The Americans with Disabilities Act, a Civil Rights measure signed into law in July of 1990, prohibits discrimination against People with Disabilities while also ensuring certain rights, protections and services.
Also held yesterday was a recognition that includes the following:
- Billy Fantom, Corrections Officer, Sheriff’s Department – 30 years of service/retirement.
All 34 resolutions were passed with the exception of one (35) which is still pending committee approval. All County Legislature meetings are held the second Thursday of every month, the next one to be held on August 11 at 2:00 p.m. To view the full agenda, please click here.
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