The Arc of North Dakota invites you to an event at The Empire Arts Center, Grand Forks, on September 19, 2024, as we Build A Legacy for Tomorrow. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., and the program will start at 7:00 p.m. At this event, we will launch The Arc of North Dakota v. State of North Dakota Document Special Collection, held at Elwyn B. Robinson Department of Special Collections, University of North Dakota Chester Fritz Library.

Our evening together will include presentations by The Arc of North Dakota and the University of North Dakota Department of Special Collections, a special viewing of The Arc’s 1993 documentary, “Abolition of Shame: A North Dakota Homecoming,” and a panel discussion about the lawsuit's historical significance and how the special collection will be used to educate future generations. There will be a reception with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.

Why is this project important? In 1980, The Arc of North Dakota and six brave families sued the State of North Dakota over the conditions at the state institutions and the care provided to their loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). As we approach the 45th anniversary of the Arc of North Dakota Lawsuit in 2025, we want to highlight the work done to better the lives of people with IDD, which paved the way for the systems and services that exist throughout our state today. By creating the special collection, The Arc will help educate and empower future generations to continue the work of advancing the rights of people with disabilities in our state.

Click the button below to reserve your seat before September 1st. We look forward to seeing you at Empire Arts Center on September 19th!