MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
A major civil rights milestone will be celebrated Friday as Beyond Barriers and the Hutchinson Human Relations Commission host a community-wide event marking the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The celebration takes place from 3 to 8 p.m. at Avenue A Park, where Washington Street between A and B avenues will be closed for the festivities. The event will feature free hot dogs, water, and chips, along with a dunk tank, adaptive sports demonstrations, and disability simulations that allow attendees to experience challenges faced by people with disabilities.
“We’re taking over Avenue A Park for a celebration that’s as educational as it is fun,” said Anthony Frischenmeyer of Beyond Barriers. “The ADA changed everything—from curb cuts to public access—and we want to honor the progress made and highlight where we still need to go.”
Signed into law on July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, transportation, and access to public spaces and services.
“It’s a civil rights act that gave people with disabilities a chance to live independently and participate fully in their communities,” Frischenmeyer said. “Before the ADA, people faced enormous barriers just getting to school or accessing buildings.”
As part of the celebration, Beyond Barriers launched the “$35 for 35” campaign—a fundraiser seeking 100 donations of $35 each, with a goal of raising $3,500 by August 1. Donations can be made online through Beyond Barriers’ Facebook page.
Beyond Barriers is an Independent Living Center serving Kansans with disabilities across the lifespan. The organization offers employment support, housing resources, advocacy services, and referrals—helping people stay independent without requiring proof of disability.
Frischenmeyer, who leads employment efforts at Beyond Barriers, said building relationships with local employers is a key part of their mission. “We help connect people with disabilities to jobs—and help employers understand the power of reasonable accommodations,” he said. “Some of the most loyal and hardworking employees you’ll ever meet are folks who’ve just needed someone to give them a chance.”
Friday’s event will include booths from partner organizations and a live community podcast recording by Jason Probst, inviting guests to share what the ADA means to them.
Frischenmeyer said while much progress has been made, accessibility is still an ongoing challenge. “We’ve come a long way—but sidewalks still aren’t always safe or smooth, and we have to keep pushing for true inclusion,” he said. “This celebration is about acknowledging what’s been done and recommitting to the work ahead.”
For more information or to donate, visit Beyond Barriers of Kansas’ website: https://www.beyondbarriersks.com/