The Americans with Disabilities Act is 20 years old today, and the state is celebrating with a reception to mark the advances made in areas such as accessibility and rights – leaving employment as the major challenge.
Gov. Martin O'Malley is expected to attend the event at Camden Yards, which is slated to run from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Hundreds of people with disabilities and their families and caregivers will be on hand and some will offer testimonials on how their lives have changed or become more meaningful.
"The Americans with Disabilities Act was a major milestone in ensuring that each individual has equal opportunity to make a positive difference in this world," O'Malley said in a statement. "On this, the 20th anniversary of the ADA, we are deeply committed to the principles of the ADA and ensuring that Marylanders with disabilities receive the same basic freedoms – independence, equal access, freedom of choice and inclusion – afforded to every citizen in our State and in our country."
Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake is also expected to attend the event, which is open to the public.
O'Malley is expected to present citations to nine Maryland citizens, organizations and businesses that have made contributions to the employment, education, independence, advocacy and quality of life of Marylanders with disabilities, according to event organizers at the Maryland Department of Disabilities.
The ADA covers all public and private employers with 15 or more employees. It requires reasonable accommodation for and bans discrimination against those with physical or mental impairments, according to the Department of Justice. More information on the rules for businesses can be found at ada.gov.
The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that there are 49.7 million Americans with disabilities. More information can be found at disability.gov.
Associated Press photo of people in wheelchairs spell out ADA at Dodger Stadium in commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the act's passing