35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act
This month marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Specifically, July 26, is a landmark built on the foundation of the Civil Rights Act, was signed by President George H.W. Bush in 1990, to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various areas like education facilities, employment, transportation, and public accommodations. This day also recognizes all the disability advocates, artists, leaders, and everyday community members who work to advance disability rights.
The ADA became a law in 1990 to ensure equal access and opportunities for people with disabilities. The law warrants that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else, similar to those provided to individuals based on race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion.
The Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) became effective on January 1, 2009. This act significantly improved accessibility such as wheelchair ramps and accessible public transportation to inclusive hiring practices. The ADAAA made a number of significant changes to the definition of “disability,” applying to all five titles of the ADA.
Key Protections Under the ADA
- Title I – Employment practices of private employers with 15 or more employees, state and local governments, employment agencies, labor unions, agents of the employer and joint management labor committees.
- Title II – Public Services or programs and activities at the local and state level by government entities
- Title III – Public Accommodations public businesses such as restaurants and stores must provide accessible facilities.
- Title IV – Telecommunications companies, telephone and internet, must provide services that allow individuals with hearing or speech disabilities to communicate.
- Title V – Miscellaneous Provisions includes a variety of provisions relating to the ADA as a whole.
How You Can Celebrate the ADA Anniversary
Raise awareness about this Americans with Disabilities landmark law that affects us all by excluding discrimination and continuing to push forward. Whether you’re an individual, organization, or business, there are a variety of meaningful ways to commend and support the disability community.
- Educate others about the disability rights movement, current accessibility issues, and overall history of the ADA
- Share the 35th Anniversary Timeline
- Support disability owned businesses and support economic inclusion by recognizing diverse talent
- Share your story about how the ADA has made your life or the life of a loved one better by joining OPWDD in participating in the National “Thanks to the ADA…” social media campaign sponsored by the ADA National Network
- Host a seminar in your workplace to explain and commence the adaptations and accommodations provided to employees
- Volunteer or donate to organizations that advocate for disability rights or provide essential services to people with disabilities
The ADA’s anniversary is not just a time to celebrate, but it’s also a reminder of the work still to come. It’s a call to ensure full equity, dignity, and inclusion for all people, regardless of ability. It’s also a time to reiterate the collective responsibility to uphold the principles of the ADA in local communities, workplaces, and public spaces.
Contact Lowery Law Group at info@lowerylegal.com or call (843) 991-0733. There is no fee for a free consultation regarding your claim. Lowery Law Group is experienced in handling cases in South Carolina as well as Georgia.