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Disability History Month

Writer's picture: Andrew CioffiAndrew Cioffi

October is recognized for apple picking, pumpkin carving, and trick or treating. It is perhaps less known as the month to celebrate Disability History. Disability History Month is meant to bring attention to the achievements of the disability rights movement. Celebrating Disability History Month in October provides a dedicated time to focus on the history, achievements, and struggles of individuals with disabilities. It allows us to spotlight their experiences, contributions, and progress in the disability rights movement.


Celebrating the disability rights movement could not be done without focusing on some key figures from the disability communities and their tireless work to pass legislation to bring equality and civil rights to the largest minority in the United States. The movement was grounded in a community of young activists who were often students who could not access inclusive classrooms. This groundbreaking activism saw the passage of legislation that affected all parts of individuals' lives, from architectural access to education including higher education. Celebrating the disability rights movement could not be done without focusing on some key figures from the disability communities and their tireless work to pass inclusive legislation.


Two such trailblazers were Ed Roberts and Judy Heumann. Ed Roberts was a disability rights activist who became the first disabled student to attend the University of California, Berkeley, in the 1960s. Roberts' activism and advocacy paved the way for establishing disability services and support systems on college campuses across the United States. His work organizing the communities and leading the Center for Independent Living (CIL), the first independent living service and advocacy program run by and for people with disabilities, was seen by many as the building blocks to the passage of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. He led in partnership with another influential figure, Judy Heumann, a disability rights activist, and leader of the Section 504 Sit-in.


Judy Heumann led protests, including a 26-day sit-in at the Department of Health Education and Welfare (HEW) headquarters in San Francisco, urging the federal government to issue regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which prohibits disability-based discrimination in federally funded programs and activities. The regulations that had been awaiting HEW approval for four years were finally issued following the advocacy of Judy and others. These regulations changed the landscape for people with disabilities and laid the groundwork for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This landmark protest led to the inclusion of disability rights in federal legislation and marked a significant victory for the disability rights movement.


Although Section 504 was a significant step forward, the legislation lacked any built-in force to implement or oversee the changes. Judy and Ed recognized this and continued to fight for its improvement. They went before Congress to share the continued need for improving Section 504 while also advocating for the passage of civil rights legislation. Many hurdles and setbacks happened between the signing of Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990. Without disability rights activists and bipartisan efforts in Congress and the Senate, President George H. Bush may not have signed the ADA into law on the front lawn of the White House in 1990.


The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 is conceivably one of the most significant legislations in the history of disability rights and higher education. The ADA makes it illegal to discriminate against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, transportation, and public accommodations.


Under the ADA, universities and colleges must provide reasonable accommodations and remove barriers that hinder the participation of disabled students. This legislation included the provision of ramps, elevators, accessible classrooms, and assistive technologies. The ADA also sparked a broader conversation about inclusive education and the importance of diversity in higher education. Institutions began to recognize the value of a diverse student body in terms of the perspectives they brought to the classroom and the contributions they could make to society.


Today, colleges and universities continue to work towards creating inclusive environments that accommodate the diverse needs of students with disabilities. Technology advancements have also played a crucial role in facilitating access to education, with online learning platforms and assistive technologies making education more accessible.


However, challenges still exist, including the need for increased awareness, funding, and support services. The ongoing fight for disability rights highlights the importance of creating a truly inclusive society that values and embraces the contributions of all individuals, regardless of their abilities. By dedicating a specific month to disability history, we can educate and raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. It encourages us to challenge societal misconceptions and stereotypes, while also promoting a more inclusive and accepting society. When celebrating Disability History Month, we are reminded that the fight for equal rights and opportunities is ongoing and that we must continue to advocate for a more inclusive society.




Minnesota Celebrates Ed Roberts Day on January 23 | The Minnesota Mascot. http://minneotamascot.com/news-whats-happening/minnesota-celebrates-ed-roberts-day-january-23

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