FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APHA Media Relations, 202-777-3913
APHA is pleased to recognize the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the landmark law that continues to remove obstacles to inclusion for people with disabilities.
Adopted on July 26, 1990, the ADA helps protect people with disabilities from discrimination in health care, education, housing, transportation, employment and more.
“Over three decades, the ADA has paved the way to independence, opportunity and self-sufficiency for millions of people with disabilities, which enriches the lives of all Americans,” said APHA Executive Director Georges C. Benjamin, MD. “We are proud to carry on this work as we strive for greater equity and integration for people with disabilities.”
Among its provisions, the ADA stipulates that people with disabilities have access to the same employment opportunities as people without disabilities; requires public entities to make their services, programs and activities accessible to those with disabilities; and bars public places from discriminating against people with disabilities.
APHA is also recognizing its Disability Section, which is celebrating more than 30 years as an Association member group. The 300-member Section raises awareness and promotes action on public health issues that affect the health, functional, social and environmental aspects of disability. Among its work, the Disability Section advises APHA on accessibility for the Association’s Annual Meeting, recently creating guidelines for accessible meeting presentations and spaces.
“When everyone can contribute to society, our communities and nation are stronger,” Benjamin said. “By working together through our membership, the public health community at large, our partners and policymakers, we can ensure a healthier future for all people with disabilities.”
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APHA champions the health of all people and all communities. We strengthen the public health profession. We speak out for public health issues and policies backed by science. We are the only organization that combines a nearly 150-year perspective, a broad-based member community and the ability to influence federal policy to improve the public’s health. Visit us at www.apha.org.