The Americans with Disabilities Act (1990): A Short Guide

The civil rights law that opened doors, literally and figuratively, for people with disabilities.

President George H. W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act on 26 July 1990. It prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, state and local government services, public accommodations such as stores and restaurants, transportation, and telecommunications.

How it happened

The law followed decades of organizing by disability rights activists. In March 1990, dozens of activists left their wheelchairs and crutches at the foot of the U.S. Capitol and pulled themselves up the steps, an event known as the Capitol Crawl, to demand that Congress pass the bill.

What it means in practice

• Employers must provide reasonable accommodations.
• New and renovated buildings must be accessible, with ramps, accessible restrooms and parking.
• Public transit must be usable by people with disabilities.
• Courts and the U.S. Department of Justice have applied the law to websites and digital services.

This guide is general information, not legal advice.

Part of the Boston Made Reader’s special collection Courage, Conscience & Service. Written for the Reader and free to read here.