People with Disabilities Are Heroes
On July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law by President George H. W. Bush during a historic ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House. This landmark legislation marked a turning point in the civil rights movement,one that recognized the dignity, worth, and rights of people with disabilities across the United States.
The ADA is a comprehensive civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life. It is divided into five key titles:
- Title I – Employment: Protects individuals with disabilities in the workplace and ensures equal access to job opportunities.
- Title II – Public Services: Requires state and local governments to make their services and programs accessible.
- Title III – Public Accommodations: Mandates accessibility in places such as restaurants, stores, hotels, and recreational facilities.
- Title IV – Telecommunications: Ensures access to telecommunications for individuals with hearing or speech impairments.
- Title V – Miscellaneous Provisions: Includes additional protections, including enforcement measures and safeguards against retaliation.
The purpose of the ADA is clear: to guarantee equal opportunity, full participation in society, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for all Americans with disabilities.
A Modern-Day Capitol Crawl
Recently, I had the profound honor of witnessing a powerful reenactment of the historic Capitol Crawl,a pivotal protest that helped push the ADA into law. In 1990, eight-year-old disability rights activist Jennifer Keelan-Chaffins famously crawled up the steps of the U.S. Capitol, refusing to be invisible. Her courage moved a nation.
Inspired by her legacy, four extraordinary women came together at the Utah State Capitol to recreate that moment in their own way:
- Briel Wheatley, who lives without limbs
- Kerri Knudson, who has Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (AMC) and no use of her legs
- Marcelyn with dynamic disability
- And my wife, Christi Christiansen, who made the climb with the help of her service dog, Panda
Together, they faced 41 steep steps. What might take an able-bodied person less than a minute took them nearly 15. But this moment wasn’t about time,it was about strength, unity, and visibility. Each step was filled with determination and mutual encouragement. When they reached the top, they joined hands in celebration,a powerful testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of the disability community.
Why People with Disabilities Should Be Called Heroes
People with disabilities face challenges every day that go unnoticed by most of society. But rather than letting obstacles define them, they adapt, persist, and thrive. This is the very essence of heroism.
- They adapt to a world not built for them, crafting creative solutions where accessibility is lacking.
- They advocate,not only for themselves, but for others,demanding equity, dignity, and justice.
- They endure physical, emotional, and societal barriers with extraordinary grace.
- They inspire through their actions, courage, and leadership.
- They educate us all by simply living authentically and challenging assumptions.
These are not acts of convenience or choice,they are acts of survival and strength. And that makes them heroes.
Celebrating Different Abilities
People with disabilities are not broken or lesser,they are innovators, fighters, leaders, and trailblazers. Their lives are a testament to perseverance and resourcefulness. Every day, they overcome barriers that others rarely see.
Their journeys deserve more than acknowledgment,they deserve admiration.
As we commemorate the signing of the ADA, let’s not just reflect on what was accomplished decades ago. Let’s continue the work by uplifting the voices, stories, and strength of those it protects. Let’s celebrate not only their rights,but their resilience.