A Legacy of Progress and the Work Ahead
This July marks the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)—a landmark piece of civil rights legislation signed into law on July 26, 1990. At its core, the ADA affirms what we at AtWork! have always believed: people with disabilities have the right to live, work, and participate fully in their communities.
Before the ADA, countless Americans faced barriers that limited their access to education, employment, transportation, and public spaces—not because of their disability, but because of systems that weren’t built with inclusion in mind. The ADA helped change that. It outlawed discrimination, mandated accessibility, and set a new standard for equity across the nation.
Why the ADA Still Matters
While the ADA laid the foundation for inclusion, the journey is far from over. At AtWork!, we see firsthand how barriers still exist—especially in employment. Despite having the desire, talent, and determination to succeed, people with disabilities remain underemployed at twice the rate of their non-disabled peers.
That’s why the ADA is not just a historical milestone, it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that access is a right, not a privilege, and that every employer, policymaker, and community member has a role to play in making our society truly inclusive.
Our Commitment
AtWork! was founded on the belief that employment is a pathway to independence, dignity, and connection. Through supported employment, transition services, and community inclusion, we work every day to break down barriers, shift perceptions, and open doors for people with disabilities to thrive.
The ADA helps make this possible—but it’s the people we serve, the employers who champion inclusive hiring, and the families who advocate for their loved ones who bring the spirit of the ADA to life.
What You Can Do
- Learn more about the ADA and the history of disability rights.
- Support inclusive employment by partnering with us or donating to our mission.
- Speak up when you see inaccessibility or injustice.
- Celebrate the progress we’ve made—and recommit to what still needs to be done.
Together, we honor the ADA not just with words, but with action.
Happy Anniversary, ADA. Here’s to building a more inclusive future for everyone.
