Commission discusses Section 504 lawsuit, considers community education and film screenings

Commission members set aside time to discuss a national lawsuit that seeks to eliminate Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and considered local steps to respond through education and outreach.

Christy (chair) outlined that a number of states have joined a Texas lawsuit seeking to remove Section 504 protections; commissioners said the case could affect disabled students and residents who rely on access to education and services. Members discussed contacting the Massachusetts attorney general to request an amicus brief and strengthening state protections, and several commissioners described following updates from disability-rights monitors and authors who compile advocacy developments.

Members returned repeatedly to the theme of public education. Commissioners proposed sponsoring or co-sponsoring community screenings of documentaries — suggestions included Crip Camp and Lives Worth Living — to raise public awareness about disability rights history and the present-day stakes. Members discussed possible partners (Amplifying Voices film festival, Danvers Cares, schools, the public library and the Danvers Art Association) and noted screening costs vary; one example mentioned a $500 licensing fee for a different documentary.

At the meeting’s close, commissioners agreed to explore next steps: investigating film licensing costs and potential partners and exploring school and community partnerships for screenings and related educational programming. The transcript records volunteers offering to research costs and partnerships, but it does not specify a formal motion or roll-call assignments with deadlines.

No formal municipal policy was adopted; commissioners asked staff and volunteer members to gather cost estimates and outreach contacts for potential community events.