National Disability Independence Day is a major observance that celebrates the achievements and rights of individuals with disabilities. Held annually on July 26, this day marks the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) being signed into law. 

While the signing of the ADA ensured fair compensation under the law, its impact was felt on a deeper level by many disabled communities, serving not only as commemoration for how far they've come, but also as a reminder of the ongoing work required to create a more inclusive society. And in the spirit of improving upon the historic work of the ADA, you can embrace National Disability Independence Day by working toward greater inclusion well into the future. 

Historical Significance of the ADA

People with disabilities have faced discrimination and marginalization throughout history, and it was not until the latter half of the 20th century that the disability rights movement gained momentum. Activists, advocates, and organizations across numerous communities and demographics fought tirelessly for equal rights, accessibility, and social acceptance.

The major turning point came with the signing of the ADA in 1990 by then-President George H.W. Bush. It is a comprehensive civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. 

“With [the] signing of the landmark Americans for Disabilities Act, every man, woman, and child with a disability can now pass through once-closed doors into a bright new era of equality, independence, and freedom,” announced Bush during the signing to a crowd of thousands. 

“Together, we must remove the physical barriers we have created and the social barriers that we have accepted,” he added. “For ours will never be a truly prosperous nation until all within it prosper.”

The passage of the ADA represented a significant cultural and legal shift, empowering communities and establishing legal protections that ensured individuals with disabilities could fully participate in society. 

This groundbreaking legislation ensured equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities in employment, public accommodations, transportation, telecommunications, and more. It mandated reasonable accommodations, accessibility modifications, and equal treatment, providing a foundation for inclusivity and independence.

For 33 years, National Disability Independence Day has served as an annual reminder of the transformative impact of the ADA and the continuous work required to create a truly inclusive society.

Embracing Challenges & Triumphs

Since its inception, National Disability Independence Day has had a profound impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities and the broader community, sparking meaningful conversations surrounding accessibility and inclusion, and shedding light on the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

“Awareness is the foundation for empathy, and it really starts with kind of having those hard conversations and digging deep to think about what disability awareness means, and how gaining greater awareness of those with disabilities can help you become a more empathetic and inclusive person,” says Sam Drazin, Executive Director of Changing Perspectives, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that collaborates with schools to support initiatives surrounding equity, inclusion, and social-emotional learning for K-12 students.

Furthermore, National Disability Independence Day serves as a unifying force for the disability community. It provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and advocates to come together, share their experiences, and amplify their voices.

This collective strength can be vital for creating lasting change, advocating for policy reforms, and raising valuable awareness about disability rights.

Despite the significant advancements made in disability rights, challenges persist. People with disabilities can still face discrimination, limited accessibility, and barriers to employment. Attitudinal barriers and societal misconceptions also contribute to the marginalization of individuals with disabilities.

National Disability Independence Day is a time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of individuals with disabilities. It highlights their resilience, determination, and contributions to society.

“I think it's helping to change the narrative,” says Drazin. “Disability doesn't need to be something that's viewed as a negative, but rather celebrated as a form of diversity. Disability really is the largest minority in the world, and it’s unique because it's the only minority that you can be born into, or you could acquire later in life due to an accident or an illness.” 

He explained that the national discourse on disability helps the greater public understand more about the needs and experiences of disabled communities, and how important these conversations will continue to be in the future. 

Celebration Through Action 

National Disability Independence Day calls upon individuals to actively participate in the journey towards inclusivity and equality. And it doesn’t have to be a one-day event. 

“People with disabilities comprise over 60 million in the United States, [and] they can be any racial group, orientation, gender, religion, or all class of life. So it is a population of folks that people really need to understand more, because when we advocate for people with disabilities we are really advocating for the entire United States,” says Sharon McLennon Wier, Ph.D., Executive Director for the Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York (CIDNY). 

This nonprofit, grassroots organization comprises social workers, lawyers, and other highly qualified professionals working to provide resources and opportunities to enhance the lives of people with disabilities.

Education and awareness are crucial, allowing people to understand the experiences of those with disabilities and challenge ableism. Supporting disability rights organizations, volunteering, and participating in initiatives can make a tangible difference by supporting community organizers and funding necessary services.

By advocating for accessible practices in personal and professional spheres, we can contribute to breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive society.

“I think the first thing is to acknowledge and speak up about it, if you see something that's not acceptable, we have an info@CIDNY.org email address that they can email us and let us know so that we can get on it and start advocating,” says Wier. 

“[You] can also join our CIDNY Action Network, where we put together grassroots initiatives and teach people how to lobby and use their voice more efficiently to make a difference.” 

How You Can Celebrate

Here are some ideas and suggestions compiled by various organizations for celebrating National Disability Independence Day: 

• Holding wheelchair games or races
• Exhibiting works by artists with disabilities
• Sponsoring a disability awareness poster contest
• Demonstrating the use of assistive devices at a community event
• Hosting an online or in-person discussion on the impact of the ADA

Here are some additional recommendations for improving inclusion and accessibility in your workplaces, schools and communities year round:

• Appoint an ADA Coordinator
• Survey websites for accessibility and prioritize web pages to be updated based on use and content
• Provide effective communication such as interpreters at all large events or public meetings
• Utilize the ADA National Network for training and technical assistance (1-800-949-4232)
• Participate in online courses, audio-conferences, and podcasts
• Conduct in-house training on ADA issues

National Disability Independence Day serves as a powerful reminder of the achievements and ongoing work in the disability rights movement.

As we celebrate, let us not only recognize the achievements but also reflect on the work that remains. By championing the rights of individuals with disabilities, fostering inclusivity, and embracing diversity, we can shape a future where everyone can thrive. 

July 26 is not only a celebration of achievements but also a call to action—to create a world that embraces the principles of inclusivity, respect, and equality for all members of our society.

To learn more about efforts to expand accessibility and digital inclusion within your organization, check out the online resource directory and community at InclusionHub for more information. Happy National Disability Independence Day!