Viewpoint: Celebrating the ADA
Dear Readers,
On August 25, 2014 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution published an opinion piece by William Lind. In the article, Mr. Lind opined that the "ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) has proven the single most expensive, least useful mandate ever leveled on public transit."
Mr. Lind, who is director of The American Conservative Center for Public Transportation, goes on to say that, "Many of the special facilities ADA demands of transit systems are seldom if ever used. If something intended to serve the disabled is frequently used, including by people who are not disabled but nonetheless find it helpful, I'm all for it. But millions have been spent entirely uselessly."
Mr. Lind obviously does not know people who rely on public transportation to get to work, the doctors or to an Atlanta Braves game. He does not understand that the goal of the ADA is to realize the dream of many people with disabilities to have access to the same places and opportunities as others.
This issue of Making a Difference begins a yearlong examination and celebration of the ADA as we move closer to its 25th anniversary. Georgians will join others in celebrating this important civil rights law passed to end discrimination in the workplace, the movie theater and on public transportation. Mr. Lind reinforces that some people still believe it's about "picking yourself up by the bootstraps" and that prejudice and discrimination do not really exist. The National Center for Human and Civil Rights (NCCHR) that opened this summer in Atlanta is a way for us to remember the stories of those who have fought to end discrimination.
Another issue that the ADA was created to address is employment. Since its passage, we have not experienced the promises in employment that were expected. The majority of individuals with disabilities remain unemployed or attend "sheltered" programs where they are paid almost nothing. We explore what is needed to increase the number of people with disabilities in Georgia who are employed and the policy changes required to fulfill the promise of the ADA. This includes the adoption of an Employment First policy that will result in employment being the first option for many people instead of an afterthought.
Finally, we hear from the candidates for Governor and the United States Senate as we prepare for the November elections. Learn what they have to say about people with disabilities and the policies that are needed. It is important that you ask them if they agree with William Lind before you cast your vote. We cannot allow this kind of mentality to prevail in this country.
Check out our website and join our advocacy network so that you can stay informed. We hope you enjoy reading this magazine and we want to hear from you. Let us know your thoughts and connections to the civil rights movement by writing to .
Eric Jacobson
Executive Director
Tags: Making a Difference