As Disability Pride Month came to a close on July 25, 2025, Los Angeles marked the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a reminder that disability rights remain an ongoing civil rights movement.

The day reflected what becomes possible when public leaders, disability advocates, and communities work together toward inclusion.

It was also a meaningful reunion with the disability community and a full circle moment I will always cherish: being introduced to Mayor Karen Bass by Stephen David Simon, sharing my “D1$@B1LtY IS NOT A DIRTY WORD”* pin, and thanking her for leading with inclusion.

Mayor Karen Bass stood alongside Councilmember Imelda Padilla; Colleen Wrenn, Chief Executive Officer of the Los Angeles Department on Disability; Reynold Hoover, Chief Executive Officer of LA28; Paul Krekorian, Executive Director of the Office of Major Events; and other civic and community leaders, reaffirming Los Angeles’ commitment to a truly inclusive Games for All.

The City continues advancing accessibility through its Host City Accessibility Commitment, the Games Accessibility Plan, and the appointment of Natalie Sparrow, Chief Accessibility Officer for the City of Los Angeles, whose work helps embed access and equity into planning for the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Inclusion is more than representation. It is reflected in policies, practices, and decisions shaping daily life.

As Los Angeles prepares for future milestones, the opportunity remains to ensure disability is included not as an afterthought, but as part of the blueprint.

Progress becomes more sustainable when accessibility is designed from the beginning, with disabled communities helping shape what comes next.