Independent Living History

While it seems like common sense today, the Americans with Disabilities Act took many years and lots of hard work to get it passed. The people in these videos invested their time in the struggle for Disability Rights. Most continue to work to make sure the ADA is enforced, and to improve services and accessibility for everyone.

Tom Filliault Band

I Had No Clue – Tom Filiault

"The IL Movement is strong... It's the right thing to do." Tom learned about independent living from his job at ...
Paul Spooner speaking at a PCA rally

Civil Rights Movement and Disability Rights – Paul Spooner

"July 26th is my 4th of July!" As an early proponent of the Independent Living movement, Paul Spooner was a ...
Michael (r) at Boston 2012 ADA

What is Independent Living? – Michael Muehe

Michael speaks about his journey since his injury in 1976. He has been a key member of the Boston Center ...