The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Historic Civil Rights Acts of Triumph with Worldwide Influence

Photo by Ferobanjo

Every year, we celebrate the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  The historic law was enacted in 1990, and our country is in a better place because of it – and other nations have taken notice.  ADA prohibits the discrimination against people with disabilities. This includes employment, transportation, communication, public accommodations, activities, and government services. It states that “individuals with disabilities must have access to all public activities and places, just as anyone without disabilities.”  

What changes have we seen because of the ADA?

While many of us would probably never have thought about what life was like for individuals with disabilities before the 1990’s, there were many challenges experienced in the 80’s, 70’s, 60’s and beyond.  In addition to wheel chair access, there were progressive changes that were needed and noted. To begin with, this important piece of legislation made it illegal to discriminate against individuals with disabilities by requiring:

• Community businesses, government buildings, public transportation, programs, and other services to make their establishments and services accessible and accommodate individuals with disabilities.
• Employers and workplace situations to accommodate individuals with disabilities and provide equal opportunities for employment. 

Many of the following changes (and others not listed) have had incredible impact with creating a more accessible and inclusive society: 

• ​Curbed sidewalks
• Public/School Buses, Taxi’s, and other forms of transportation requiring the use of lifts, designated seating
• Alternative entrances
• Accessible Parking
• Accessible Restroom Stalls
• Allowance of service animals
• Closed captions, Sign Language Interpreters, Braille, Video Technology, Video Relay Services
• Picture/Electronic Communication Devices (Talkers)
• Immediate service (reduced wait times, served first, etc.) 

Photo by Vestita

Over time, accommodations have evolved to meet the needs of many individuals with disabilities, including those with conditions that are not obvious.  Individuals with autism, diabetes, cancer, mental health issues, intellectual disabilities, and many other conditions require the protection of the broadly written law to ensure their successful participation and integration into society.   Many small and tycoon businesses have created sensory friendly environments and/or programs that accommodate individuals with sensory related disorders. AMC theaters was the first to have created Sensory Friendly films, designating specific times for those with autism or sensory related issues to participate in experiencing going to see a movie with their family and friends. Many other theaters are following their lead. Restaurants, theme parks, bowling alleys, and other community and recreational activities are learning quickly that making changes that make them universally accessible and improve how they provide a service, is not only good for creating an integrated society, it’s also good for business. After all, individuals with disabilities are valued members of their community.  Why wouldn’t they be potential consumers?

Photo by Katermikesch

The Americans with Disabilities Act has had a positive impact on other countries as well. Many nations have adopted similar practices. Since the 1990’s, disability rights laws have been developed in one hundred forty-five countries.
  
The right to be treated as an equal member of our society should not be viewed as a privilege. The Americans with Disabilities Act has made it a federal requirement to provide equal access, equal opportunities, and equal treatment to all individuals with disabilities without prejudice and free of discrimination.  It is an American standard that has inspired nations worldwide to recognize the importance of protecting disability rights and creating inclusive communities.  

© 2017 Sensory Friends