On July 26th, 2016, President Barack Obama proclaimed the 26th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This landmark legislation is the cornerstone of disability rights in the United States. As the proclamation noted, the ADA "enshrined into law the notion that Americans living with disabilities deserve to participate in our society free from discrimination."The ADA provides requirements that public spaces and businesses be accessible to disabled persons, provisions guaranteeing equality of public services, and also powerful anti-discrimination regulations for employers. These anti-discrimination regulations prohibit employers from discriminating against disabled employees and disabled job seekers on the basis of their disability. Employers are also required to make reasonable accommodations for disabled employees, including taking reasonable measures to protect them from discrimination by co-workers or other people who are affiliated with the business. When employers violate the ADA, they can be held liable and owe compensation to the disabled victim of the discrimination.The proclamation concluded:Today, as we reflect on the courage and commitment of all who made this achievement possible, let us renew our obligation to extend the promise of the American dream to all our people, and let us recommit to building a world free of unnecessary barriers and full of deeper understanding of those living with disabilities.People with disabilities should be aware of their rights under the ADA and seek legal counsel if they feel those rights have been violated. If you have any questions about the ADA or would like to discuss your rights under the ADA, contact Jachimowicz, Pointer & Emanuel today.The full presidential proclamation can be found here.
