What is the American Disabilities Act of 1990?

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 provides civil right protections to individuals with disabilities. The ADA guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, education, employment, transportation, state and local government services and telecommunications.

This act establishes a clear and comprehensive prohibition of discrimination on the basis of disability.

Context of ADA:

• 43 million Americans have one or more physical or mental disability. This number is increasing as the population as a whole is growing older.
• Historically, society has tended to isolate and segregate individuals with disabilities and despite some improvements, such forms of discrimination against individuals with disabilities continue to be a serious and pervasive problem.
• Discrimination exists in critical areas (employment, housing public accommodations, transportation, recreations, and access to public services).
• Before this act, there was no real legal recourse for these individuals.
• Basically the goal is to assure that equality of opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self sufficiency for such individuals.

AA/EEO Policy

What is ADA

Purpose

ADA Title II

Qualifications

Program Access

Integrated Programs

Communications

New Construction & Alterations

Enforcement

Complaints

What Does this Mean for Extension

Reasonable Accommodation

Websites

FAQ

References

MU Extension Diversity Home