By Elizabeth Ladzinski
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
MIDTOWN WEST — Hip-hop duo "4 Wheel City," made up of two gunshot victims in wheelchairs, provided entertainment for hundreds of New Yorkers and city officials celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act at Lincoln Center Monday morning.
The landmark law, signed on July 26, 1990, is the most comprehensive federal civil rights legislation, protecting an estimated 50 million Americans with disabilities.
The mission of the 4 Wheel City performers is to use hip-hop culture and music to inspire people with disabilities to stay positive and live fulfilling lives. They performed a series of songs at Monday's event about what life in a wheelchair is like, including one song they originally recorded with Snoop Dogg.
New York has long been a leader in wheelchair access, according to Commissioner Matthew Sapolin, Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities.
"There are laws that protect us right here in our city that exceed the minimums of ADA as it relates to the inclusion of all people," Sapolin said.
He added, "The inclusive programs and services visible here today represent the commitment of New York's communities to opening their doors to all."
NYPD detective Steven McDonald, who was left a quadriplegic after a shooting in 1986, offered words of encouragement and a poem in honor of the 20th anniversary.
"When I thought about becoming a New York City police officer 30 years ago, it didn't enter my mind about doing my job from the seat of a wheelchair," said McDonald, who is still officially a member of the NYPD on sick leave.
"But I have proven to myself and many of my colleagues that I can contribute to the New York City police department as a disabled American."
