Monday, July 26, 2010 marks the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the ground-breaking legislation that gave people with disabilities the same rights as every American.

The ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, transportation, public accommodation, communications, health care (as affirmed in the Supreme Court’s Olmstead decision), and governmental activities. It also establishes requirements for telecommunications relay services.

PHI commemorates the passage of the ADA, which changed the lives of, and provided new opportunities for, people living with disabilities.

We also honor the direct-care workers who help to make it possible for many people living with disabilities to reside at home and in the community, and to lead full, independent, productive lives.

The ADA National Network has released a moving video to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the ADA, and has posted information on regional events taking place throughout the nation to celebrate this momentous occasion.

– by Deane Beebe