Justin Dart Jr. was a key figure in the fight for disability rights, despite challenges in his early life. He had poor work ethic, attended seven high schools, and failed to graduate. His life changed dramatically after contracting polio, with doctors proclaiming that he only had three days to live.

After surviving, Dart became determined to improve his life for the better, though he was now required to use a wheelchair. He went on to work for Tupperware in Japan, where he was fired for hiring workers with disabilities. Often called the "father of the ADA," Dart’s crucial efforts helped pave the way for legislation that would change the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities.

Jennifer and her sister Kailee at a protest in Atlanta, GA. Olin Tom. September 1989. https://jkclegacy.com.

Another influential figure in the disability rights movement was Jennifer Keelan-Chaffins. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age two, Jennifer had been barred from public schools because of her disability, with officials labeling her a "fire hazard." Undeterred, she became deeply involved in the disability rights movement. By age six, she had participated in multiple protests. At just eight years old, Jennifer took part in the historic Capitol Crawl on March 12, 1990. ​​​​​​​

Both activists fought tirelessly until the ADA was passed on July 26, 1990.