July marks the 17th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To commemorate its passage into law, the Disability Law Center hosted a community reception Wednesday honoring those who make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities in Utah.

The ADA, signed into law by President George H. Bush in 1990, prohibits discrimination and is designed to ensure equal opportunity for people with disabilities in employment, state and local government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities and transportation.

"Every citizen should have the opportunity to fully participate in their community," said Matt Knotts, executive director of DLC.

The law center presented Community Justice Awards to four recipients this year for their work in protection and advocacy for the rights of people in Utah with disabilities. Advocate of the year went to Rep. Ronda Rudd Menlove, R- Logan. The Innovative Community Partner Award went to The Tooele Chamber of Commerce. The Open Government Award went to the city of Lynndyl and the Image Award went to Art Access/VSA of Utah.