Recognizing 20th Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. ELLISON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The ADA was a monumental achievement in the fight for equality for every American living with a disability.

The ADA opened doors, literally and figuratively, for millions of Americans who faced limited opportunities to travel, work and receive an education.

It may be difficult for younger people to imagine the obstacles endured by disabled Americans prior to the passage of the ADA, while it did not eliminate the challenges of living with a disability; its passage provided far greater access and renewed hope for millions.

I want to offer my sincere thanks to those who contributed to the struggle for equal rights and equal access, a movement that ultimately resulted in the passage of the ADA. The efforts of disability support groups, non-profits, legislators and individuals across our Nation who advocated for changes represent the best in America. Their success 20 years ago is a blueprint for improving lives today.

Just as it is important to celebrate the freedoms and rights that our Nation offers, we must continue to advocate for the changes that are needed. As a nation, we should be proud of the rights that we have secured for our citizens, but never forget the struggle for those rights. I am committed to continuing the fight for equality for all Americans: with and without disabilities.

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