Celebrating The 35th Anniversary Of The Americans With Disabilities Act

This historic federal law, signed on July 26, 1990, prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and affirms their right to full participation in American life. In Boston, approximately 8.3% of residents under age 65 live with disabilities. These residents face a range of challenges, including difficulties with self-care, independent living, mobility, and communication. The ADA has helped remove many of the barriers they face, and Boston continues to strengthen its commitment to inclusion and equity.

The City’s Disabilities Commission has made notable progress, including ADA accessibility upgrades to City Hall Plaza and expanded closed captioning on public screens for residents with limited hearing. The Council also highlighted the Language and Communications Access (LCA) program, established in 2016, which ensures translation and interpretation services are available for all residents, including those with communication-related disabilities.

The adopted resolution, offered by Councilors Flynn and Murphy, also recognized the work of community groups like the South Boston Special Kids and Young Adults and the Challenger Baseball League, which provide inclusive programming for children with special needs.

As ADA Day approaches, the Council reaffirms its dedication to equity, accessibility, and opportunity for all residents with disabilities.