Celebrate 25 Years of the Americans with Disabilities Act

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Celebrating 25 Years of the Americans With Disabilities Act

July 26 marks the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Modeled after the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the legislation was signed into law in 1990 to eliminate discrimination against, and to promote opportunities for people with physical and mental disabilities.

Almost one in five Americans - nearly 19 percent of the U.S. population - have a disability, according to the Census Bureau. The ADA defines a person with a disability as:

1. Someone who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities
2. Someone who has a record of an impairment which substantially limits major life activities
3. Or someone who may be regarded by others as having such an impairment

The ADA continues to create cultural change across the country, including design modifications in buildings and neighborhoods, easier-to-use transportation, less discrimination in the workplace, and better communication and more independence throughassistive technologies.

If you or someone you know has a disability, Disability.gov can help you find the benefits, health services, educational programs, employment tips, and housing information you need.

Learn more about the ADA and nearly 100 years of laws benefiting people with disabilities by exploring the Department of Labor’s interactive timeline.