This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Center for Independent Living, Inc (CIL) and the Independent Living Movement from Berkeley, CA. In honor of this anniversary CIL will host #CIL50: Reflection, Reunion, Renewal - a series of celebrations and events in October 2022 meant to reflect on our history, reunite with advocates and leaders from our history and renew our commitment to Independent Living through education and organizing. 

 

CIL was founded in 1972 by Ed Roberts and his fellow disability advocates as a community hub run by and for disabled people to promote Independent Living (IL), and provide advocacy opportunities and community support for people with disabilities. The IL Movement sparked in Berkeley, CA has grown to over 400 similar centers across the United States and even more in 20 countries spanning the globe today.

 

The #CIL50 Honorary Host Committee and CIL’s Board of Directors, staff, volunteer leaders and community partners have come together to plan a series of diverse events to make sure there is something for everyone. Please mark your calendars and share these events with your friends, allies and family – everyone is welcome!

 

Fruitvale Fiesta: October 14, 2022

Aguachiles El Tamarindo

3053 International Blvd., Oakland, CA 94601

10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

CIL invites the Fruitvale community and our local partners to celebrate our 50th anniversary at a taco truck lot take over. Featuring civic and community speakers, kid friendly activities, local Spanish speaking cultural artists and performers including DJ Trice, Folklorico Dancers, Mariachi and more! This event is meant to introduce Oakland’s Spanish speaking community to our Fruitvale based services and Independent Living while also having fun.

 

#CIL50 Independent Living Summit: October 19-October 21, 2022

Ed Roberts Campus, 3075 Adeline Street, Berkeley, CA 94703

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

This 3-day conference style summit held will engage disability community members in tracks committed to community organizing advocacy, emergency preparedness, access to employment and more, while also serving to connect community members to Independent Living services.

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#CIL50 Street Festival October 22, 2022

Adeline Street between Ashby and MLK, Berkeley, CA

12:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Held in front of the Ed Roberts Campus, this street festival will celebrate CIL’s 50th anniversary through the art, music, performance, culture and history of the disability community. We will also be joined by civic and community speakers. The festival is designed to give the whole Bay Area community an opportunity to celebrate and learn more about the Independent Living Movement. Specific attention is being focused on multiply-marginalized, BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and disabled artists and influencers for this event. A live DJ and musical acts will perform throughout the day with food and beverage vendors available. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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#CIL50 Anniversary Gala: October 23, 2022 

Ed Roberts Campus, 3075 Adeline Street, Berkeley, CA 94703

Pre-Gala Reception 4:00 PM

Gala Awards Dinner 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

We will celebrate the accomplishments of CIL and its founders and community at an awards dinner to recognize and highlight the work of grassroots leaders and benefactors from the Independent Living Movement that have helped keep this organization moving forward for the past 50 years. Tickets will be sold in packages that also include sponsored tickets for disability community members. Special guest speakers to be announced soon!

 

Covid-19 protocols will be in place for indoor events. Masks are recommended. Vaccine check will be requested at entry.