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Legend has it that a radical group of young disabled activists, known as the Rolling Quads, took to the streets of Berkeley, California, in the early 1970s to create, alongside their attendants, cut curb access for wheelchairs. They smashed existing curbs with sledgehammers and poured concrete ramps to create DIY cutaways on heavily traveled street corners in and around the UC Berkeley campus. Like all good legends, the details of the story are part fact and part fiction -- the myth of midnight commandos wielding hammers and concrete is probably a bit exaggerated -- but the folklore surrounding this spirited group of determined activists only helps solidify their reputation today as pioneers in the civil rights movement for people with disabilities.
Catalysts like the Rolling Quads (which included Ed Roberts and Hale Zukas) and many other disability rights advocates fought for legislation throughout the 1960s and 1970s that would protect the interests of people with disabilities in achieving equality, opportunity, justice, and inclusion. The efforts of these determined individuals led ultimately to the passage on the Americans with Disabilities Act on July 26, 1990.
Sunday marks the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Act, and in recognition of the occasion, the Harris County Law Library is providing a list of recommended resources that explore the history of disability rights in this country, the impact of the ADA during its first 30 years, and the ongoing role it plays in ensuring equal access for all people. Additional links of interest are included at the end.
HISTORY
Timeline of the Americans with Disabilities Act – ADA National Network
The Americans with Disabilities Act: A Brief Overview — Job Accommodation Network
The History of the Americans with Disabilities Act: A Movement Perspective – Disability Rights and Education Defense Fund
Why I wrote the Americans with Disabilities Act by Robert L. Burgdorf Jr. -- Washington Post
FUTURE
The ADA at 30: Beyond the Law’s Promise – New York Times
This series explores how the Americans With Disabilities Act has shaped modern life for people with disabilities in the 30 years since it was passed.
ADA: The Next 30 Years of Disability Rights – Ford Foundation
VOICES
Demystifying Disability – Call Your Girlfriend (Podcast)
Two writers who also both have physical disabilities describe the planning and preparation in their daily lives and provide resources for people without disabilities who want to learn more and grow as allies and friends.
After 30 Years, How Has The ADA Helped You? – NPR
Morning Edition wants to collect stories from people within the disability community about how the legislation has impacted their lives — however generally or specifically. Stories could be used on air or online.