National Disability Independence Day

A celebration of breaking down barriers, creating new opportunities and changing the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities.

Written by Larissa Smerer, Administrative Assistant (Chicago Tube & Iron – St. Paul, MN)

July 26 is National Disability Independence Day, celebrating 34 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law. Since its official enactment in 1990 and amendment in 2008, the ADA has assisted in breaking down barriers, creating opportunities and changing the lives of millions of Americans. By honoring the standards set by the ADA, we work toward a future where everyone, of all abilities, can flourish and contribute to our communal growth and success. 

Inclusion efforts for individuals with disabilities didn’t begin in 1990. In fact, the progress we’ve made up to today actually began many decades before. Individuals with disabilities have challenged societal barriers and exclusions throughout history. Some milestones have included the forming of the League of the Physically Handicapped, created in the 1930s to advocate for the employment of people with disabilities during the Great Depression; the development of the “We Are Not Alone” organization in the 1940s to assist patients transitioning from hospitals to the community; and passing of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which established individuals with minorities as a protected group.

Disability affects 1 in 4 adults in America. Accommodations and considerations, can allow differently abled individuals the opportunity to contribute and thrive:

• Closed captioning and audio descriptions in videos and other visual communications
• Accessible restrooms
• Entry ramps and curb cuts
• Elevators
• Automatic doors
• Service animals
• Accessible public transportation

As we celebrate National Disability Independence Day and those who worked so hard to ensure disability rights, there are ways we can all help cultivate an inclusive and supportive environment for individuals of all abilities:

• Learn about the history of the disability rights movement and disability pioneers and advocates - https://www.innow.org/disability-history-timeline/  
• Become familiar with appropriate terminology when writing or speaking about individuals with disabilities – https://adata.org/factsheet/ADANN-writing
• Help create a welcoming, diverse workspace for differently abled individuals - https://www.whatcanyoudocampaign.org/  
• Be an advocate for forward, positive changes - https://www.ada.gov/
• Learn more! https://www.inclusionhub.com/articles/national-disability-independence-day

“I wish for a world that views disability, mental or physical, not as a hindrance but as unique attributes that can be seen as powerful assets if given the right opportunities.” – Oliver Sacks, British Neurologist & Naturalist