Neurodiversity Employment Network recognizes this landmark day in history! We are proud to continue the advocacy for #Neurodiversity , #DisabiltyPride, and #Accessibility. Want to join our network? Sign up here! https://lnkd.in/ec7zwSRR Kevin Davis Amber (AJ) Shank Gabrielle Robertson-Cawley National Disability Institute ACLU Philly SHRM Human Rights Campaign Disability:IN Laura Sibbald, MA CCC-SLP, ASDCS, CYMHS Radian Greenphire Transition Pathways, A.J. Drexel Autism Institute
Tomorrow, July 26th, will mark 34 years since the passage of the historic #AmericansWithDisabilitiesAct (ADA), a landmark legislation that has transformed the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities. The #ADA has broken down barriers and opened up opportunities in employment, transportation, public accommodations, and more, fostering a more inclusive society for all. As we reflect on America's disability rights journey, we honor the trailblazers and milestones that paved the way for the ADA. Here are just a few: 1932: The first president with visible disabilities, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, was elected, but the public was shielded from the extent of his disabilities. 1935: President FDR signed the Social Security Act, providing cash benefits, medical, and therapeutic services for people with disabilities. 1945: The first National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week (later became National Disability Employment Awareness Month). 1948: Congress passed the Vocational Rehabilitation Act, prohibiting discrimination in federal employment for people with physical disabilities. 1963: President John F. Kennedy signed the Community Mental Health Act, moving people "warehoused" in institutions back into their communities. 1968: The Architectural Barriers Act was passed, mandating that federally constructed buildings and facilities be accessible to people with physical disabilities. 1972: The Center for Independent Living was founded in Berkeley, California and led by disabilities activist Ed Roberts. 1973: The Rehab Act was passed, establishing equal access for people with disabilities through removal of architectural, employment, and transportation barriers in federal establishments. 1975: The Education for Handicapped Children Act of 1975 (later the IDEA) guaranteed a free public education for all children with disabilities in the least restrictive environment. 1977: During the 504 Protest, San Francisco activists held a 28-day sit-in calling for federal civil rights for people with disabilities. The measure was signed that year. 1981: The United Nations commemorated the first International Year of Disabled Persons. NOD founder Alan A. Reich became the first person to address the U.N. General Assembly from a wheelchair. 1984: Voting Accessibility for the Elderly and Handicapped Act ensured equal access to the polls. 1988: The Deaf President Now protest went on for 8 days at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. The movement was a success.
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