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Disability rights demonstrators occupy federal offices.

1977

The Story of Disability Justice
DCRJ
RES

Disability rights activists in ten cities stage demonstrations and occupations of the offices of the U.S. Department of Health Education and Welfare (HEW).

The protests focus on HEW Secretary Califano's refusal to sign regulations for the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

After a 25-day office takeover, he finally concedes to signing the regulations. At the time, this is the longest recorded occupation of a federal office by protestors in U.S. history. On April 28, 1977, Califano signs the regulations.