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.
July is also designated as Disability Pride Month, coinciding with the signing of the ADA.
Are you looking for help, answers or assistance with ADA-related concerns?
- ADA National Network: What is the ADA?
- An overview of the ADA
- ADA Fact Sheet Series
- ADA.Gov: From Answers to Common Questions to Offical Legal Documents
- Have questions about the ADA? Call the U.S. Department of Justice ADA Information Line
- U.S. Access Board Technical Guide to Using the ADA Standards
Are you interested in the history of the ADA and the Independent Living Movement?
- 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
Are you interested in learning more about – or participating in- Disability Pride Month?
Every July, Disability Pride is celebrated and commemorated through Disability Pride Month, going hand-in-hand with the signing of the ADA. Each year, the theme of Disabiltiy Pride Month serves to challenge abelsim, recognize the historical significance and acheivements of people with disabilities and emphasizes the importance of inclusion and how people with disabilities lend a much-needed perspective to – and are a vital part of – every aspect of our communities including employment, education, business, recreation, culture, entertainment, the arts and so much more.