It's ADA Day!

Today is the day the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law on July 26, 1990. This landmark legislation prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, transportation, and public accommodations. It has greatly improved accessibility and opportunities for people with disabilities across the United States.

Despite this law being passed, we have a long road ahead. There are still many challenges and barriers that individuals with disabilities face every day. Efforts to fully implement and enforce the ADA are necessary to ensure equal rights and opportunities for all. However, the ADA has undeniably paved the way for progress and is a reminder of the ongoing fight for inclusivity and accessibility.

When the world went virtual, I found myself able to connect with advocates from all over the country. As a result, I took on more significant projects, expanded my network, and achieved greater success in my professional life. I found myself involved in a wide range of causes, becoming an even stronger advocate. This time allowed me to refocus my efforts on my goals, which helped me make a real difference. I have learned so much from others; their perspectives have opened my eyes to innovative ideas and opportunities. It also taught me the importance of adaptability and finding creative solutions in challenging times. Working alongside top-performing individuals provided valuable insight. I discovered my strengths and weaknesses and learned more about my values and aspirations.

Like any other advocate starting out, I knew the basics of our history but needed to understand the extent of it. I knew who Judy Heumann was and her story. Still, when I dove deeper and read the personal accounts of those at the forefront of the struggle, I truly appreciated the sacrifices and progress made.

Seeing the impact of her work made me believe that actual change is possible when people come together to fight for what is right. As I immersed myself in her story, I realized how much courage it took her to speak out. It was fascinating to learn about her journey, which inspired a national mission to improve the lives of millions of people. In her way, she shattered misconceptions about disabilities. Through my research, I saw how her voice had grown louder over time as she found more and more ways to make herself heard. Her accomplishments were a testament to how persistence and hard work can pay off.

I came across the Crip Camp documentary, which features a group of young people with disabilities who fought for their rights at Camp Jened, ultimately leading to the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

When I had the chance to meet Judy, I jumped at the opportunity. I went to the documentary's premiere question-and-answer panel and asked about her advocacy approach. She shared her experiences and explained how she uses storytelling to create change. Her passion for making a positive impact was contagious. She highlighted the importance of amplifying our voices and creating meaningful dialogue through education and advocacy. I was impressed by her humility and willingness to listen. Her advocacy approach emphasized the importance of collaboration in tailoring advocacy efforts.

This experience was insightful, and it was an excellent opportunity to learn about the craft of advocacy from a trailblazer, which left a lasting impression on me. I couldn't help but feel motivated to make a difference in the world.