National Deaf History Month 2023: April 26th - ADA 1990 Passed

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law in 1990 by President George H.W. Bush, after a long and hard-fought advocacy effort by disability rights activists. The ADA is a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability and guarantees equal opportunities and access to employment, public accommodations, transportation, telecommunications, and government services.

Before the ADA, people with disabilities faced countless barriers to participation in society. They were often denied access to public spaces, transportation, education, and employment opportunities, and they were subject to stigmatization and discrimination. The ADA was a critical step towards eliminating these barriers and achieving greater equity for people with disabilities.

The ADA has had a profound impact on American society, improving the lives of millions of people with disabilities. The law has helped to increase accessibility and participation in all aspects of life, including in employment, education, transportation, and recreation. It has also helped to change the way that society views people with disabilities, recognizing them as valued members of the community who are entitled to the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

The ADA has been instrumental in advancing disability rights and creating a more inclusive and equitable society. It has inspired similar legislation in other countries and has served as a model for disability rights advocacy around the world.

As we reflect on the passage of the ADA over 30 years ago, it is important to recognize that there is still work to be done to fully realize its goals. Many barriers still exist for people with disabilities, including in areas such as employment and housing. But the ADA's legacy continues to inspire and guide advocates and policymakers in their efforts to build a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

In conclusion, the passage of the ADA in 1990 was a significant moment in the history of disability rights and a critical step towards achieving greater equity and inclusion for people with disabilities. The law has had a profound impact on American society and has inspired disability rights advocacy around the world. As we move forward, it is important to continue working towards the full realization of the ADA's goals and to build a more inclusive and equitable society for all.