Congresswoman Duckworth Herald's 23rd Anniversary of the ADA

An Important Anniversary For ADA

About Me | Services | Contact Me Connect with Me     Dear Neighbors,   Rep. Tammy Duckworth speaking at the Convention on the Rights for Persons with Disabilities press conference in Washington. Today, on the 23rd anniversary of its passing, all Americans should acknowledge the victory the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides for people with disabilities and human rights in our country. In 1990, Senators Bob Dole and Edward Kennedy led a bipartisan coalition to help enact the ADA, which banned discrimination taking place against Americans with disabilities and provided them with newfound opportunities to live fulfilling and productive lives.   The ADA assists me in overcoming the obstacles that I face as a wounded Veteran and it has given me the opportunity to assist my fellow Veterans with disabilities. I would not be where I am today without it. I am forever thankful for this groundbreaking law because it has made America a stronger and more compassionate nation.   As we celebrate this important milestone, it is also important to look ahead and anticipate the work that must be done. Despite the victory the ADA provided for people with disabilities, it is important that we make sure it is fully implemented and that people with disabilities around the globe have similar protections. Another step forward would be for the U.S. Senate to ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, a treaty that would help guarantee access and protections worldwide. If the Senate passes this treaty, it would reaffirm the United States as a leader in the fight for equality for all disabled persons.   I also applaud the work of the National Council on Independent Living. They are advocating for social change, eliminating disability-based discrimination, and creating opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in the legislative process to affect change.   I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues and all Americans to make sure that all people with disabilities are given the rights they deserve.  Sincerely, Tammy Duckworth Member of Congress