20th Century Triumph: Disability Rights + Computer Technology

Thus, Ed Roberts, the Father of the Personal Computer, sparked the advances in computers that have lead to the development of many of the assistive devices which help people with disabilities lead the lives envisioned by Ed Roberts, the Father of the Independent Living Movement. The two Ed Roberts' differed in their staying power. While the first Roberts abandoned the financially struggling MITS and returned to his medical career in 1977, the second fought for disability rights until his death in 1995. I thank both Ed Roberts' for their contributions to my life!

My vision for the new century was best conveyed in the words of disability activist Roberts at a sit-in for disability rights in San Francisco, April 30, 1977:

We have begun to ensure a future for ourselves, and a future for the millions of young people with disabilities, who I think, will find a new world as they begin to grow up. Who may not have to suffer the kinds of discrimination that we have suffered in our own lives. But that if they do suffer it, they'll be strong and they'll fight back.

…

We are victorious. We are strong. And we will march ahead together. And nothing will stop our achieving equal opportunity, and the right to move about freely in this society. (http://www.spinewire.com/dr_edroberts.ht...

Have a great holiday and all the best in Y2K!

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