United Spinal Updates

Reflecting on the 30th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Jim Weisman

It comes as no surprise that 2020 is a year like none other.  The COVID-19 pandemic has had an immense impact on the health and safety of injured veterans, wheelchair users, and all people living with spinal cord injury and disorder (SCI/D).

These challenges continue to test us each and every day, but there is still something that we can pause to acknowledge and celebrate this year.  2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

My work to craft and lobby for the passage of the ADA was the most significant thing I have ever participated in.  Since then, all of us at United Spinal have been fighting for changes in building design and public transportation, including curb cuts on street corners and accessible public bathrooms.

There is still more work needed to ensure people with SCI/D have the same opportunities as everyone else.

Despite our victories, many challenges still remain for people with SCI/D.  Employers continue to have reservations about hiring people with disabilities, and transportation is still a major barrier to employment for wheelchair users. In fact, more than half of Americans with disabilities are unemployed.

The COVID-19 crisis brought to light serious situations for wheelchair users, as well.  They faced a shortage of home-based and community-based services, personal care attendants, and health care options.  Imagine how hard it has been for people with SCI/D to maintain their health and independence and avoid hospitals and nursing homes where so many have been exposed to this deadly virus!

Thank you for your continued support that powers our work to strengthen the ADA. You help us fight to ensure people with SCI/D have all of the same opportunities as everyone else.  Together we must complete the yet unfinished work that the ADA has begun.

Sincerely,

 

 

James Weisman
President and CEO
United Spinal Association