July 26, 2021 marked the 31st anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, an act which was signed into law by former President George H. W. Bush. In 1986, the National Council on Disability recommended the enactment of this Act and drafted the first bill, which was introduced into Congress in 1988. George H. W. Bush signed the bill into law in July, 1990 and the bill was later amended by his son, President George W. Bush, in 2008.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law which prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities (both mental and physical conditions that do not need to be severe or permanent to be considered a disability) in all areas of public life. Since the inception of the ADA, it is illegal to discriminate against these individuals in employment, transportation, commercial facilities, public accommodations, telecommunications and local government services. The ADA also requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities covered under the Act.
“This landmark law affirms and protects the fundamental rights of people with disabilities – the right to equal opportunity, economic self-sufficiency, independent living and equitable participation in every aspect of American life. For more than three decades, the ADA has made our communities, our economy and our country stronger and more vibrant.”
– President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.
Based on census data from 2019, there are more than 41 million citizens, or 12.7% of the population of the United States, living with a disability, of which median earnings fall right around $25,000 per year. In 2021, it is estimated that close to 61 Million Americans are, in fact, living with a disability. For over 30 years, this law has not only protected but encouraged the societal contributions of these individuals.
“The ADA is the living testament to our Nation’s Commitment that we will always stand up for our neighbors’ right to live fulfilling lives.” – Tammy Duckworth
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