In 1974, the lack of community-based services, accessible dwellings, and other critical accommodations resulted in institutionalization for many people with disabilities. This year, the Boston Center for Independent Living (BCIL) in Fields Corner marks its 50th year of groundbreaking work through advocacy, services, and community organizing to end the practice of institutionalization and to insist on access to transportation, education, housing, employment, and health care and so much more for people with disabilities. 

Consumers, family and community members, and supporters celebrated this milestone anniversary at the Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Center in Boston on Saturday, Sept. 21. Thanks to generous sponsors, including Commonwealth Care Alliance, 1199SEIU, Mass General Brigham Health Plan, Tempus Unlimited, Kate & Phil Villers, and The Jeff Thompson Charitable Fund and 25 others, the event was free and open to the public.

“Today, BCIL’s combination of service, advocacy and action, grounded in a racial equity, social justice, and a human rights framework, helps improve the lives of thousands of people in the Greater Boston area and often across Massachusetts each year,” said Bill Henning, BCIL’s executive director since 2002.

“We are keenly aware that much remains to be done to demand, protect, and ensure equity, justice, opportunities, and dignity for people with disabilities. We will not let up even if it takes another 50 years.”

Among the program highlights was a special presentation to BCIL’s Founders. Cindy Wentz, one of the first people involved in BCIL and an employee in the 1980s, recalled interviewing the original founders at the School of Theology at Boston University.

Another early member of BCIL, staff member and disability advocate Michael Muehe, spoke to the efforts to support people with disabilities to live in the community and setting of their own choice.

“We must continue to advocate to ensure that people with disabilities are not left behind and can utilize and benefit from new technological tools,” he cautioned.

James Hills served as co-emcee along with board member Dianna Hu, BCIL’s Riders’ Transportation Access Group facilitator Kat Torres-Radisic, and board member Rich Smith.