Celebrating 35 Years of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Source: Photography by Tom Olin

A Landmark Civil Rights Law

Today, July 26th, marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This landmark civil rights law prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in nearly every area of public life. It has transformed accessibility in the U.S. and has paved the way for greater inclusion.

However, the real story didn’t begin with a presidential signature. It began with a crawl.

The Capitol Crawl: A Defining Moment

On March 12, 1990, over 60 disabled activists left behind their mobility devices and began to crawl up the steps of the U.S. Capitol. Some wore suits, while others donned advocacy t-shirts. Many displayed expressions of pain and determination.

This act of protest became known as the Capitol Crawl. It was not a performance; it was a direct confrontation. It was a visceral, undeniable demand for access and civil rights.

Exposing Inaccessibility

The crawl exposed, in brutal clarity, what inaccessibility really looks like: physical pain, public humiliation, and exclusion baked into our buildings, systems, and policies. It was the moment lawmakers could no longer look away.

We often commemorate July 26th as the “official” moment the ADA was born. However, we should never forget that it was the March 12th crawl that made that birth possible.

The Long Road to the ADA

The ADA didn’t emerge from a moment of generosity or political goodwill. It was the result of years—decades—of organizing, advocacy, and protest from disabled communities who refused to be invisible. These activists fought tirelessly for their rights and the rights of others.

As someone who works in accessible design, I see every day how far we’ve come—and how much further we need to go. The ADA laid the foundation, but it’s just that: a foundation. Access is still too often treated as an afterthought, a luxury, or a line item that gets cut when timelines are tight.

Accessibility: A Matter of Justice

But accessibility is not generosity. It’s justice. On this 35th anniversary, I want to celebrate the people who made the ADA happen: the ones who crawled, shouted, organized, wrote, testified, protested, and persisted.

Let’s celebrate their courage by continuing their work—building systems, services, and spaces that honor the full humanity of every person. Because access isn’t a feature. It's the foundation.

The Ongoing Fight for Accessibility

The Importance of Advocacy

Advocacy remains crucial in the ongoing fight for accessibility. It is essential to keep pushing for laws and policies that ensure equal access for everyone. The fight does not end with the signing of legislation; it requires continuous effort and vigilance.

Building Inclusive Communities

Creating inclusive communities is vital. This means not only ensuring physical access but also fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and included. It is about changing attitudes and perceptions towards disability.

The Role of Technology

Technology plays a significant role in enhancing accessibility. Innovations can help bridge gaps and create more inclusive experiences. From assistive devices to accessible websites, technology can empower individuals with disabilities.

Education and Awareness

Education is key to promoting understanding and awareness of disability issues. By educating ourselves and others, we can create a more inclusive society. Awareness campaigns can help change perceptions and reduce stigma.

Celebrating Progress

While we have made significant strides in accessibility, there is still much work to be done. We must celebrate the progress we have made while recognizing the challenges that remain. Every step forward is a victory worth acknowledging.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, let us commit to continuing the fight for accessibility. We must honor the legacy of those who came before us by ensuring that their struggles and triumphs are not forgotten. Together, we can build a more inclusive world for everyone.

In conclusion, the 35th anniversary of the ADA is not just a celebration of a law; it is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. Let us carry the torch forward, ensuring that access is not just a privilege but a fundamental right for all.