Backstory on the ADA

Employees still do not know what to do when a disabled individual walks into their store. Disabled, chronically ill, and neurodivergent individuals are left out of the conversation of inclusiveness despite society’s desire for progressiveness. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 does little to enforce the ongoing discrimination against those perceived as different. 

It wasn’t until March 12th, 1990 that the issue of discrimination against disabled individuals was taken seriously. A monumental event known as the Capital Crawl occurred. “Jennifer Keelin,” a disability activist started this by getting out of her wheelchair and, as suggested by the name, crawling up the steps of the capital (IAAP). Many followed her, ditching their mobility aids and crawling up the steps. This brought to light the physical and social difficulties that disabled individuals face in their daily lives. 

July 26th of that year, the ADA was signed to establish a “clear and comprehensive prohibition of discrimination based on disability” (Department of Justice). In the years since this has protected disabled individuals on a federal level but has not erased the issues the community still faces today. 

There is no excuse to treat people as less than others because of their differences and challenges. There is no enforcement of a federal law protecting disabled individuals, minimal education to the public about how to assist individuals, and a lack of policies.