United Spinal Updates

Reflections on the Americans with Disabilities Act

Celebrating its 29th anniversary this week, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) empowers our community in more ways than one. Our members and staff share their thoughts on the ADA and how this landmark law has made a positive difference in their lives.


Brook McCall“I am thankful every day to the thousands who spent decades fighting for the civil rights and access that lets me define the way I enjoy, contribute to, and live in the community. I want to honor their legacy by doing what I can to break down the physical and attitudinal barriers that still stand in the way of individuals with disabilities living out their dreams.”

—Brook McCall, Grassroots Advocacy Manager, C-4 quadriplegic since 2002

 


Jim Weisman“29 years ago, on July 26th, 1990, I sat in a crowd on the White House lawn that included what appeared to be thousands of people with disabilities and watched President George H.W. Bush sign the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) into law. I was involved in the drafting of and lobbying for the passage of the ADA. Those of you who work on legislation will know that when I say that the bill passed in just 22 months, start to finish, it was a huge achievement. I was part of something historic and witnessed people with disabilities work together in an exquisite effort to open congressional eyes and get them to acknowledge the needs and rights of the most marginalized minority group in the world.”

—James Weisman, United Spinal President & CEO


 

Stefan Henry

“The ADA helped me in many ways. One of them is getting to work for myself. It stopped schools from discriminating against me and helped them accommodate my needs. I now have my Engineering Degree and use it to help people with disabilities get custom tools to improve their quality of life.”

—Stefan Henry, United Spinal Member, NYC & CEO at Level the Curve

 

 


Nick LiBassi

“I was injured 23 years ago and I am so thankful for the ADA. Life can be a struggle for anyone, when you have a disability it can be even more challenging. It is comforting to know that access to things that many people take for granted are protected for us. It has allowed me to live a fulfilling life!”

—Nick LiBassi, VP Partnership Expansion


Shannon Minnick
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“29 years and proud! 29 years ago I acquired my disability and the ADA was signed. Thank you ADA for paving the way for me to live independently in my community and to play an active role in society. Because of the ADA people with disabilities thrive!”

—Shannon Minnick, United Spinal Member, Washington, DC


Download a free copy of our “Understanding the ADA” booklet.