The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law in 1990. The ADA is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public.
The purpose of the law is to make sure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. The ADA is divided into five titles (or sections) that relate to different areas of public life.
Each year, the anniversary of the ADA is celebrated on July 26th. Much has been accomplished, much still needs to be done. Here is information on the ADA, its history, ways you can get involved and ways to celebrate the Anniversary each year.
- What is the ADA?
- An overview of the ADA
- ADA Fact Sheet Series
- U.S. Access Board Technical Guide to Using the ADA Standards
- Timeline of the ADA
- Celebrating the ADA
- Video: Signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, July 26, 1990
- The History of the ADA: Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund
- The Independent Living Movement
- Time Magazine Article: The Fight for Access and Equality Continues
Disability Pride Month!
July is Disability Pride month and the celebratory month goes hand-in-hand with the signing of the ADA. The theme for the 2025 Disability Pride Month is “We Belong Here, and We’re Here to Stay.” This theme emphasizes the important of inclusion and belonging for people with disabilities, and it serves as a powerful statement that they are a vital part of every community and should not be excluded or marginalized.
The Lawrence Public Library is hosting a Disability Pride Month Celebration, July 26 from 2-5 pm, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the signing of the ADA. Find more information HERE