On July 26, 1990, the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) represented a pivotal push toward inclusivity and accessibility for millions of individuals living with a disability. The ADA helped to make huge strides towards eliminating discrimination on the basis of disability by mandating accommodations to ensure that those living with a disability had equal access to employment, education, state and local government services, public transit and telecommunication. The act cements a foundation for the considerations that must be made to promote accessibility of these spaces where its impact is one which creates the opportunity for all individuals to negotiate the demands of their everyday environment. On the 34th anniversary of this momentous occasion, we celebrate the legacy of the ADA and acknowledge the immense changes that have ensued from its influence over the past nearly three and a half decades.
The ADA has been instrumental in guiding change at the legislative level. Still, equally important, the act continues to foster critical growth and connection at the community level by creating a mission for all individuals, with and without disability, to rally behind collectively. The ADA sets precedence for inclusivity and equal opportunity. Still, the responsibility ultimately falls on the community members to relentlessly push for action and build upon the principles that the act establishes. To summarize, while we must recognize the formidable impact of the ADA, it is crucial to understand that the fight for inclusion is far from over. Now more than ever, the community needs the determined voices and actions of our advocates to continue breaking barriers for the rights of individuals with disabilities.