PROCLAMATION
BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
Ed Roberts was a true pioneer in the disability rights movement. He was a leader and educator who fought throughout his life to enable all persons with disabilities to fully participate in society.
Mr. Roberts joined other students with disabilities at U.C. Berkeley to run the Physically Disabled Students Program. This program was the first of its kind in the nation and led to the creation of the Center for Independent Living (CIL). This center serves as a model for disability advocacy and self-help services across the nation and around the world.
In 1975 Mr. Roberts was appointed Director of the Department of Rehabilitation, a position he held until 1983 when he co-founded the World Institute on Disability.
On March 14, 1995 Ed Roberts died from natural causes. He is remembered for his determination to ensure social justice, equality and independence for people with disabilities.
NOW THEREFORE I, EDMUND G. BROWN JR., Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim January 23, 2011 as “Ed Roberts Day”.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 1st day of February 2011.
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EDMUND G. BROWN JR.
Governor of California
ATTEST:
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DEBRA BOWEN
Secretary of State