Think about what you were doing 35 years ago. You might have been growing up, chasing dreams, or just looking ahead to a new decade. For millions of Americans, July 26th, 1990, is a special day. It's when their right to be included became officially protected by law.

Why the ADA Matters—For You, Me, and Millions of Others

Think about the last time you rolled a stroller up a curb, listened to an announcement on a bus, or helped a family member find an elevator instead of stairs. These everyday moments, made easier for everyone, are thanks to the ADA. And for our neighbors with disabilities—over 61 million Americans—the ADA isn’t just helpful, it’s a lifeline.

The ADA protects us from discrimination in work, schools, stores, transportation, voting, public spaces, and technology. It’s about dignity, opportunity, and choice, no matter how you move, learn, or communicate.

How the ADA Makes Life Better—And Why We Celebrate

Here's how the ADA has improved people's lives:

• At Work: Employers cannot reject or fire someone just because they have a disability. With helpful adjustments at work, everyone has a fair chance to succeed.

• In Public: Ramps, elevators, clear signs, and automatic doors aren't just nice features—they show everyone is welcome. These changes mean people with disabilities can enjoy movies, restaurants, shopping, and sports events just like everyone else.

• In Transit and Technology: Wheelchair lifts on buses and services that help with phone calls ensure everyone can travel and communicate.

• In Our Communities: The ADA encourages us to see people's abilities first, not their disabilities—showing us that including everyone is always the right choice.

How the ADA Helps Families and Children

Wonder how laws like the ADA and IDEA help kids with disabilities? Here's what you need to know:

• School Rights: Every child can learn in regular classrooms with the right support. This might include helpers, special tools, or teachers who understand their needs.

• Childcare Access: Daycares and after-school programs can't turn away children just because they have disabilities. Kids get the help they need—such as special diets or sign language—so they can participate.

• Play and Activities: From sports to playgrounds, good design and positive attitudes help all kids play together, turning barriers into opportunities.

The Personal Side: What I Believe, and What We Can All Do

I write this as someone who cares deeply about this issue—both as an advocate and as a friend. I've seen how my friends have overcome challenges I never faced. Simple things like a ramp, a sign language interpreter, or a patient teacher can change everything. As a Deaf person, I know firsthand the struggles and victories of living in a world not always built for deaf people. I've learned that accessibility isn't just about physical things, like buildings—it's about changing how we think and feel about one another.

So, what can we do together?

• Listen. Ask people with disabilities what makes them feel included (and what still holds them back).

• Speak up. If you see a barrier—a policy, a sidewalk, an attitude—help remove it.

• Educate yourself and others about the ADA, knowing that progress is a journey, not a destination.

• Teach kindness and inclusion to children—not just by words, but by actions.

Celebrating 35 Years, and Looking Ahead

As we mark 35 years of the ADA, remember this: the law helps everyone, not just people with disabilities. Any of us might someday need a ramp, an understanding boss, or a classroom that meets our needs.

We should strive for a world where everyone belongs and can participate—no exceptions.

Let’s keep moving forward—together.