Celebrating 35 Years of the Americans with Disabilities Act

By Wendy Grove, Ph.D., Senior Advisor, Research, Evaluation & Impact

State Administrator for Ohio PROMISE

Project Director, Ohio’s Early Childhood Inclusive Leadership Fellowship

Ohio Department of Children and Youth

Follow Wendy on LinkedIn.

This week marks a monumental milestone—the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Signed into law on July 26, 1990, ADA has been a beacon of hope and a powerful tool for change, making discrimination based on disability illegal. Its impact is profound and far-reaching, opening doors—literally and figuratively—that were once closed to millions of Americans.

The ADA has transformed our society, ensuring that people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else to work, learn, and enjoy life. From accessible buildings to fair treatment in the workplace, ADA has paved the way for justice and equality. It has empowered individuals to pursue their dreams and live their lives to the fullest, whether that means exploring our beautiful State parks, excelling in their chosen careers, attending school in their community, or being able to play with their friends at their local park.

In Ohio, the ADA's influence is evident in the robust support systems we have in place for our youngest citizens. Programs like Early Intervention, Preschool Special Education, and Special Education are just the beginning. Across various departments—Children and Youth, Health, Developmental Disabilities, Medicaid, Education and Workforce, Mental Health and Addiction Services, Job & Family Services, and more—we are committed to supporting children with disabilities from birth. Organizations like Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, Disability Rights Ohio, and the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities play crucial roles in this effort.

Supporting children where they learn, live, and play is not just beneficial for them; it strengthens our entire community. By equipping adults with the knowledge and tools to support each learner, we ensure that every child has joyful, impactful early experiences. To all the service coordinators, developmental specialists, teachers, paraprofessionals, intervention specialists, and service providers—thank you. Your dedication and hard work make a world of difference, helping children learn and grow alongside their peers.

For those interested in learning more about the experiences of Ohio families in accessing services, I encourage you to check out Groundwork Ohio’s survey results from April 2024. Additionally, the Ohio Department of Children & Youth offers an Issue Brief on Accessible Child Care for Children with Disabilities, providing valuable insights from families across Ohio and the nation.

In Ohio, we are committed to helping all citizens achieve their potential. If you need professional development or assistance accommodating a child with a disability, visit Ohio Promise. Families seeking support can reach out to Family Support Specialists for help with child care and financial support options at Ohio Promise for Families.

As we celebrate this significant anniversary of the ADA, let’s remember that every day presents opportunities to support our fellow Ohioans. Whether through acts of kindness or advocacy, we can all contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society. People with disabilities are our neighbors, friends, family members, and loved ones. Together, we can continue to build a community where everyone has the chance to thrive.