35 Years of the ADA: Honoring Progress & Advocating for the Future

This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a landmark civil rights law that continues to shape a more inclusive and accessible society. Signed into law on July 26, 1990 by President George H.W. Bush, the ADA was a monumental achievement made possible by decades of tireless advocacy from the disability community. The law prohibits discrimination based on disability in employment, state and local government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities, transportation, and telecommunications. It ensures that individuals with disabilities have equal access to opportunities and services – rights that should be guaranteed, not granted.

Key Principles

The ADA is built upon five key principles: full participation, independent living, equality of opportunity, and economic self-sufficiency. These principles aim to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as those without disabilities in various aspects of life.

Equity and Inclusion

Equity and inclusion means providing fair access to resources and opportunities while actively removing the barriers that prevent full participation. It’s about building communities where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported and the ADA is just one example of everyday equity and inclusion efforts.

Travel Instruction Set the Tone

It is worth noting that the practice of Travel Instruction began even before the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law in 1990. Pioneers in the field recognized the importance of teaching individuals with disabilities how to navigate public transportation safely and independently. These early efforts laid the foundation for what would become a vital service, supporting mobility, independence, and community access long before federal protections were formally established.

A Legacy of Impact

In the 35 years since its passage, the ADA has helped dismantle physical and societal barriers, opening doors – both literally and figuratively – for millions. Curb cuts, accessible transit, workplace accommodations, captioned media, and inclusive education have become more common, reshaping expectations and redefining what equitable access truly means.

It’s not just about laws or ramps; it’s about human dignity, choice, and participation. The ADA gave voice to the idea that disability rights are civil rights and that full inclusion is a shared responsibility.

Stories That Shape the Movement

Every milestone is built on stories – of courage, persistence, and community. From activists who crawled up the steps of the U.S. Capitol in the “Capitol Crawl” to young people riding accessible school buses today, the ADA is lived out in everyday moments.

Organizations, advocates, and allies across the country have embraced this anniversary as a time to reflect and commit to allowing those with disabilities to thrive on an equal playing field. Through storytelling, events, and education, the 35th anniversary is an opportunity to honor the progress we’ve made and the people who made it possible.

The Work Isn't Done

While we celebrate the ADA’s legacy, we also recognize the work that remains. Physical, digital, and systemic barriers still exist. Gaps in transportation, employment, housing, and healthcare access continue to disproportionately affect people with disabilities, especially those from marginalized communities.

As we look to the future, the promise of the ADA must be renewed through action. That means expanding accessible and affordable transportation options, supporting inclusive education and workforce development, increasing digital accessibility and bridging the technology gap, and listening to and empowering people with disabilities in decision-making.

Moving Forward Together

The ADA is more than a policy, it’s a promise and a commitment to equity, dignity, and opportunity for all. As we celebrate 35 years of progress, let’s continue to advance the spirit of the ADA by building communities that welcome and include everyone.

Whether you're an advocate, service provider, policymaker, or a neighbor, you have a role to play. Let’s use this milestone not just to look back, but to move forward with purpose and unity.

Happy 35th Anniversary, ADA. Here's to a future that’s accessible for all.