Today is the 53rd anniversary of the passage of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a landmark piece of disability rights legislation. The Rehabilitation Act was the first major federal civil rights law to protect people with disabilities from discrimination in federal employment, federal agencies, programs that receive federal financial assistance, and more.
Significantly, The Rehabilitation Act paved the way for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other advancements in disability rights laws. While there is still work to be done, today is a day to reflect on the progress that has been made, and the foundation that the Rehabilitation Act built.
People with disabilities, from decades past to present, have fought for and won the freedom to make decisions about their lives and be integral parts of our communities. Together, we will continue to protect this right.