Happy Birthday ADA!

The ADA is 18 years old this July – it’s come of age. We’ve made some progress; kneeling busses, wider doorways, accessible voting machines, even a Governor with a disability. We still face some tough barriers to building our lives. We asked what people with disabilities what they’d like to see in the next 18 years…take a look and add your ADA dreams.

Jose has a BA, work experience and cerebral palsy. When he goes on job interviews, employers do a double take. They can’t help but show their assumption that he isn’t up to the job. He would like to walk into a job interview and talk about his abilities and how he would make an outstanding employee.

Linda says, “I’d like to see the idea of an accessible environment becoming as popular and accepted as living green.”

Denise, who is deaf, tells us: “I would love to go to the museums and other social events with my friends and co-workers, but I’m never sure whether I’ll be able to understand what is going on. It’s uncomfortable for people who are deaf – I don’t want to feel left out. I would like to see events or meetings provide services such as interpreting for people who are deaf, special assistance for wheelchair users and any other accommodations for people with disabilities.”

Michael is frustrated by a system where affordable, accessible housing is beyond his reach, “I can’t see why I should have to be in a nursing home if I don’t need that type of care. All I need is a one-room accessible apartment that I can afford.” He’d like to see New York City housing provide realistic opportunities for low-income people with disabilities.

Eva, who is blind, tells us that “many subway stations are not ADA compliant and many are frequented by people who are blind or visually impaired. For those of us who want to be independent and use public transportation, it can be frustrating and scary. I’d like to see all public transportation accessible to everyone.”