Save the Date–October 17th “Bottom Dollars” Film Screening and Discussion
In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), the Disability Resource Group is hosting a film screening of Bottom Dollars followed by a moderated discussion. This event is open to all City of Madison staff and the public.
Join us October 17th
In person film screening: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Hybrid discussion: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
About the Film
“How would you like to work for two weeks, and come out with a $6 check?”
That’s the reality for almost 250,000 Americans with disabilities who are paid below the minimum wage. Bottom Dollars is an award winning film produced by Rooted in Rights. When the Fair Labor Standards Act passed in 1938, it included a revolutionary protection: a minimum wage. But Section 14(c) of the Act included an exemption allowing some workers, people with disabilities, to be paid less than minimum wage. It exposes this exploitative system and offers solutions to end segregation and discrimination against workers with disabilities.
Discussion Moderators
Cindy Bentley is the Chair of the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities, a leader and activist for the disability community. A survivor of institutionalization, Cindy now lives and works in the community. She has earned medals in tennis, track and field, and snowshoeing in the Special Olympics. Cindy has had dinner at the White House with two different American presidents, traveled around the world, and given speeches in front of thousands of people.
Cheryl Bates-Harris is responsible for training and implementation of the Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security program, a program designed to assist social security beneficiaries achieve maximum economic self-sufficiency. She has extensive experience in Vocational Rehabilitation and the Client Assistance Program, return-to-work issues, and Social Security programs and work incentives. She was appointed by President George Bush to serve on the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel. Cheryl has also worked in coalition with national groups on issues around Workforce Investment and the development of ‘One-Stops,’ Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and Welfare to Work, and other initiatives.
In person attendees:
Join us at the Madison Municipal Building, Room 206. Bring your lunch.
Hybrid attendees:
View the film https://rootedinrights.org/documentaries/bottom-dollars/
Join the Zoom discussion at 12:00 p.m.: https://cityofmadison.zoom.us/j/89667810146?p-wd=RH0Z59XZFWS2MCJKqjnx8mKB48EcW2.1#success
The Disability Resource Group is a City of Madison affinity group for employees with disabilities and employees exploring a disability identity. This event is sponsored by the Department of Civil Rights.
If you need language access services or have access needs, please contact RHoyt@cityofmadison.com