Office of the Mayor
Town of Collierville, Tennessee
Collierville Proclamation 

Proclamation Recognizing the 35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Reaffirming Our Commitment to the Protections of IDEA and Section 504.

Whereas: on July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law with strong bipartisan support, representing a historic commitment to the values of liberty, individual dignity, and equal opportunity for millions of Americans living with disabilities; and 

Whereas: this legislation built upon important protections already established by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973–particularly Section 504–and the Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975, now known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which ensures that every child has the right to a quality education tailored to their needs regardless of ability; and 

Whereas: these laws reflect deeply held principles shared by Tennesseans: that every individual is created with purpose, that families should be supported in raising their children with care and respect, and that communities thrive when everyone is given the opportunity to contribute; and 

Whereas: the people of Tennessee have long valued personal responsibility, strong families, and faith-based and local initiatives as key to ensuring that individuals with disabilities are treated with fairness, compassion, and respect; and 

Whereas: the ADA and the protections that preceded it have empowered people with disabilities to live, learn, and work with greater independence, fostering a culture of inclusion and productivity that strengthens our schools, our businesses, and our communities; and 

Whereas: the Town of Collierville recognizes that preserving and advancing the ideals of the ADA, IDEA, and Section 504 requires ongoing local leadership, sound governance, and a shared commitment to ensuring access and opportunity for every citizen.

Now Therefore, I, Maureen Fraser, Mayor of the Town of Collierville, do hereby proclaim July 26, 2025 as "Americans with Disabilities Act 35th Anniversary Day" in the Town of Collierville, and call upon all residents, churches, schools, businesses, and civic organizations to join in recognizing the contributions of individuals with disabilities, honoring their families and caregivers, and reaffirming our community's commitment to fairness, accessibility, and the God-given potential of every person. 

Maureen Fraser, Mayor