In a heartfelt plea, Jim Elias of Muscatine, Iowa, has voiced deep concerns over a federal lawsuit that threatens the very fabric of protections for individuals with disabilities. The lawsuit, supported by Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird and 16 other state attorneys general, challenges the constitutionality of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This cornerstone civil rights law prohibits discrimination based on disability in programs receiving federal funding.
For Jim, this issue is profoundly personal. His son, Tommy Elias, was born with microcephaly and has a communication disorder known as mixed receptive-expressive language disorder. From the tender age of three, Tommy benefited from educational services provided by the Mississippi Bend Area Education Agency, including early childhood education, special education, and speech-language therapy. These services, mandated under Section 504, ensured Tommy received the support he needed to thrive academically and socially.
Tommy’s journey continued through Blue Grass Elementary School and into the Muscatine Community School District, where he graduated from Muscatine High School in 2017. He then participated in the Transitions program until he was 21. Throughout his educational journey, dedicated teachers, paraeducators, and bus drivers became like family, fostering an environment where Tommy could flourish.
Today, Tommy is an active member of his community. He has been employed with Kum & Go for over a year and a half and participates in Crossroads’ Day Habilitation program. His involvement doesn’t stop there; Tommy competed in the Special Olympics last year, attending the Summer Games at Iowa State University, where he stayed on campus with his team. Through these experiences, Tommy has forged lifelong friendships and continues to lead a fulfilling life.
The potential dismantling of Section 504 poses a significant threat to individuals like Tommy. This federal law establishes essential requirements for disability inclusion, ensuring that people with disabilities have equal access to education, employment, and community services. Without it, the progress made over decades could be undone, reintroducing barriers that many have worked tirelessly to overcome.
Jim Elias emphasizes the broader implications: “Everyone needs a fighting chance to grow, thrive, and succeed. Section 504 makes that possible in Iowa and across our nation. It’s part of what makes our towns, our state, and our nation great.”
In response to the lawsuit, Jim has initiated a petition urging Attorney General Brenna Bird to withdraw Iowa from the case, advocating for preserving rights and protections for individuals with disabilities. The petition has garnered significant support, reflecting a united community committed to inclusion and equal opportunity.
The story of Tommy and his father’s advocacy serves as a poignant reminder of the real-world impact of legislative actions on individuals’ lives. It underscores the importance of standing up for inclusive policies that empower all members of our communities to lead productive and fulfilling lives.
To support Jim’s petition and learn more about the efforts to protect Section 504 in Iowa, visit Protect 504 in Iowa.
