Volunteers with the Utah Conservation Corps' inclusive crew demonstrate accessible gardening. The ADA was crafted to reduce barriers, change perceptions and more fully include people with disabilities in their communities.
July not only marks the celebration of our country’s independence, but also a more personal independence day for individuals with disabilities.
On July 26th, 2010, our nation will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Communities across the nation will join together to commemorate this anniversary with programs, picnics and fun activities.
Here in Cache Valley, the Options for Independence Independent Living Center is hosting a celebration on July 28th. Watch for the celebrations going on in your community.
The July/August Options for Independence newsletter shares a bit of the background of the ADA:
“July 26th, 2010 marks the 20 year anniversary of when Pres. George H. W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). For many individuals with disabilities, this day commemorates their own personal independence day. Since the original signing of the ADA, more than 54 million Americans with physical or mental impairments that substantially limit daily activities have received protection of their civil rights. From going to school, working, using transportation, participating in many areas of typical life, Americans with disabilities have been afforded more access and awareness of their abilities, rather than focusing on their disabilities.
“Another important date for Americans with disabilities is September 25, 2008, when the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) was signed into law. These amendments focus on discrimination factors instead of an individual’s disability.”
You can learn more about the ADA on the ADA government website.
Tags: inclusion, independence