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Commemorating 35 Years of the ADA: A Journey of Progress

This July marks a significant milestone—the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a crucial piece of civil rights legislation that was signed into law on July 26, 1990. The ADA was designed to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities and ensure they have equal access to areas such as employment, public services, transportation, and telecommunications.

In recognition of this pivotal anniversary and Disability Pride Month, the National Disability Institute (NDI) has launched a month-long campaign aimed at celebrating the advancements made under the ADA while also acknowledging the ongoing challenges faced by the disabled community. The NDI's efforts in this campaign are amplified through a series of robust social media initiatives across platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram, employing hashtags including #ADA35, #ADAAnniversary, and #ThanksToTheADA.

The campaign endeavors not just to recount the history and significance of each title within the ADA but also to honor the activists and advocates who have tirelessly fought for the rights of people living with disabilities both before and after the law was enacted.

One such influential figure is Robert Burgdorf Jr., Professor of Law Emeritus at the University of the District of Columbia's David A. Clarke School of Law. Burgdorf played an instrumental role in drafting the original ADA legislation and emphasizes the fundamental message of the Act.

“The point of the ADA is not disability – it is discrimination. The ADA is a mandate for equality.”

Although the ADA has catalyzed progress in advancing civil rights for individuals with disabilities, disparities still persist. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 44.7 million people—representing about 13.6% of the civilian noninstitutionalized population—were identified as having a disability in 2023. Employment rates among adults aged 18 to 64 with disabilities remain troubling, with only around 10.2 million employed. The median income for these individuals also reflects systemic inequities, standing at $32,149.

To address these disparities, the NDI pursues extensive research, advocacy, and collaborative programs. Their initiatives include:

Research and Policy Reports

1. Race, Ethnicity, and Disability: This brief explores the economic impacts of systemic inequality faced by BIPOC individuals with disabilities and offers actionable recommendations for change within institutions.
2. Advancing Economic Justice for People with Disabilities: Created in partnership with the Asset Funders Network, this report outlines critical steps necessary for dismantling economic barriers that hinder the employment and financial stability of disabled individuals.
3. Economic Impacts of Transportation Barriers: In collaboration with Cruise, this research examines how accessible and sustainable autonomous vehicles can expand employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Programmatic Initiatives

• - American Dream Employment Network (ADEN): This program supports individuals receiving Social Security disability benefits who seek to return to the workforce.
• - Inclusive Employment Solutions (IES): A service dedicated to offering technical assistance and improving employment outcomes within communities and systems.
• - Small Business Hub: Collaborating with over 40 organizations, this hub assists entrepreneurs and business owners with disabilities in accessing necessary capital and resources for business growth.

As we commemorate 35 years of progress under the ADA, the NDI remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering economic opportunities and advocating for a more inclusive and equitable society for all individuals, regardless of their disabilities. To join this important movement and learn more about their initiatives, visit www.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org.