Impact

Ramp It Up! How the ADA was Responsible for Granting Rights to Millions of Disabled Americans

Impact

The ADA's impact was profound, providing individuals with disabilities greater access to public services, workplaces, and transportation. Physical modifications, such as ramps and Braille signage, were required to ensure improved access to public buildings. Those with hearing impairments could access television news through closed captioning.

​​​​​​​Most importantly, the ADA enabled people with disabilities to work and earn a living just like anyone else. Employers were required to reassess their hiring practices to include individuals with disabilities. Businesses had to make accommodations for all types of disabilities, including deafness and blindness.

The ADA landmark not only transformed life in the U.S. but also influenced significant legislation worldwide. The passage of the ADA stands as a tribute to the relentless advocacy of people with disabilities and serves as a reminder that everyone has the right to fight for their rights. These rights are vital because individuals with disabilities deserve to be recognized as full citizens and to live independent, fulfilling lives.



Keelan-Chaffins, Jennifer. Interview by the author. January 6, 2025.


“Because she crawled up the steps of the Capitol to pass the ADA, I get to roll through its corridors to cast my votes in the U.S. Senate,” - Tammy Duckworth

​​​​​​​Ervin, Mike. “An Oral History of the Capitol Crawl.” New Mobility, July 1, 2020. https://newmobility.com.


Disability rights protesters attend the first annual disability pride parade holding signs. They roll in their wheelchairs on the streets of New York City.

Participants in the first annual NYC disability pride parade celebrate on July 12, 2015. Keith, Stephine. https://the1a.org.​​​

“I strongly believe that it is important to level the playing field and give eligible individuals equal access to community-based services and supports. This vital legislation will open the door to full participation by people with disabilities in our neighborhoods, workplaces, our economy, and our American Dream,” - US Senator Tom Harkin

ECNV Blog. (2010, July 29). ADA Quotes. Eastern Community Legal Services. Retrieved May 10, 2025, from https://ecnv.wordpress.com.