The Radical Life of Ed Roberts
Ed Roberts, known as the father of the independent living movement, was paralyzed by polio in his early teens.
Attending university in the 1960s was a revolutionary and complicated process for him due to structural hurdles in society.
Roberts pushed to win disabled people the resources to live in their communities, rather than in restrictive institutions.
- Development of independent living centers
- Assistance with personal aides and affordable housing
- Guarantee of personal freedom and agency for people with disabilities
His activism led to the development of independent living centers, which assist with everything from helping people find personal aides to helping to sign them up for affordable, accessible housing.
Author's summary: Ed Roberts pioneered the independent living movement for people with disabilities.