Today, 33 years later, we see the impacts of the ADA in nearly every public space, from curb cuts in sidewalks, to ramps and elevators in buildings and closed captions on TV.  

While this landmark legislation did dramatically change the lives of people with disabilities, it is still not enough. Implementation and compliance with ADA standards remains inadequate, particularly for certain communities. People with disabilities are twice as likely to live in poverty and four times more likely to experience homelessness. They experience higher rates of unemployment and earn less than workers who do not have a disability. 

Today, we remind you of our Disability Pride Month calls to action, along with some new ways to celebrate & honor 33 years of the ADA.

• Hear the voices of those impacted by the ADA. Here’s a list of great TED Talks on accessibility and inclusion.  

• Encourage your job to review their accessibility and inclusivity policies and practices. Share the Section 188 Disability Reference Guide with them.

• Learn more about the Disability Rights Movement and The Disability Justice Movement framework. Explore the framework here.

• Call your representatives and tell them to advocate for legislation that supports folks with disabilities on the local, state, and federal levels. The Arc, which has been at the forefront of the fight for the civil rights and inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families, has some suggested initiatives to support here.

• Donate to organizations that support folks with disabilities. DC’s Office of Disability Rights has a comprehensive list here.

• Register to vote if you are not! We have lots of work to do, but together we can make our voices heard.