Resolution Celebrating 35 Years of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Whereas in the 35 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was adopted,

significant progress has been made in enabling people with disabilities to live full and

unrestricted lives; and

Whereas the law promotes full participation in American life by people with disabilities,

including those with intellectual, developmental, and behavioral health disabilities, by banning

unnecessary segregation and requiring state and local governments to provide services in homes and communities; and

Whereas the ADA also advances accessibility for individuals who may have difficulty

navigating physical, social, or work environments without reasonable accommodations; and

Whereas the statute has transformed access to public spaces and transportation; and

Whereas accommodations such as curbside ramps and accessible parking spaces have made

public environments significantly more usable for people with mobility disabilities, allowing for

greater independence and activity; and

Whereas the statute has also transformed opportunities for people with sensory disabilities to

engage fully in public life; and

Whereas services such as sign-language interpreters, closed captioning on television, screen

readers, and speech-to-text technology have enabled people with disabilities to interact with the world around them in real time—empowering participation in civic, professional, and social

spheres; and

Whereas the statute has also improved the availability and quality of education for students with

disabilities, with the U.S. Department of Education providing guidance, oversight, and over 10%

of the funding for these programs nationwide; and

Whereas despite this progress, significant challenges remain and the gains of the past three

decades are at risk due to severe cuts to essential programs such as Medicaid and housing

assistance, as well as the rollback of civil rights enforcement, public education protections, and

DEIA initiatives that safeguard disabled members of our Arlington community; now, therefore,

be it

Resolved, that the Arlington County Democratic Committee celebrates the progress achieved

under the Americans with Disabilities Act in improving the lives of people with disabilities; and

Resolved further, that the Arlington County Democratic Committee urges decision makers in all

sectors, and at all levels, to preserve the gains that have been made for people with disabilities

and to work diligently to address the difficulties that remain.

Adopted this 6th day of August, 2025.