When I got involved with the disability rights movement, I started to learn about events in our disability history. From legislative changes, landmark court cases, to grassroots advocacy efforts, each milestone has contributed to the evolution of rights for disabled people.

This blog post is Part One in a three-part series where I want to highlight key moments that shaped our movement. All of the events are separated into categories. Here are links to PART TWO and PART THREE.

INTEGRATION

In 1901, the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf was established with the aim of providing support and resources for the deaf community in the United States. This pioneering organization sought to create a sense of unity and solidarity among deaf individuals, offering assistance with financial planning, healthcare, and social activities. Through their efforts, the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf played a crucial role in advocating for the rights and well-being of deaf individuals during a time when accessibility and inclusivity were limited. Their dedication to empowering the deaf community laid a foundation for future advancements in deaf advocacy and representation.

Officially recognized by the International Olympic Committee, the first Paralympics Games were held in Rome, Italy in 1960. The Games marked a historic moment for disabled athletes worldwide. Starting as a small gathering of 400 athletes from 23 countries, this event showcased the incredible talent and determination of individuals with physical disabilities. The Games featured a range of sports, including archery, swimming, and wheelchair basketball, setting the stage for the future growth and success of the Paralympic movement. These Games not only celebrated athletic achievement but also served as a platform for promoting inclusivity and changing perceptions about disability.

The Disability Rights Center (DRC) was founded in 1976 in Washington, D.C. Sponsored by Ralph Nader's Center for the Study of Responsive Law, it specialized in consumer protection for people with disabilities. The DRC was established with the mission of advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities. Recognizing the systemic barriers and discrimination faced by this marginalized community, DRC founders sought to create a platform for empowerment and change. Through legal advocacy, education, and community outreach, the center quickly became a vital resource for those seeking to challenge ableism and secure equal opportunities. Over the years, the DRC has played a pivotal role in shaping policies and legislation that protect and uphold the rights of individuals with disabilities, leaving a lasting impact on the disability rights movement.

The precursory document that eventually passed as the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Toward Independence, was written in 1986. It was a report of the National Council on the Handicapped, which outlined the legal status of Americans with disabilities and documented the existence of discrimination. It cited the need for federal civil rights legislation. Toward Independence was the testimony of disabled people describing the discrimination and ableism they faced in their daily lives. As a result, the report detailed the breaking down physical, social, and attitudinal barriers that hinder disabled people’s full participation in society. It entails advocating for accessibility, pursuing education and employment opportunities, and fostering self-empowerment.

In 2009, The Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act was passed in the U.S. For the first time, it expanded the definition of federal hate crime to include those violent crimes in which the victim is selected due to their actual or perceived disability; previously federal hate crimes were defined as only those violent crimes where the victim is selected due to their race, color, religion, or national origin. This landmark legislation provided federal authorities with more tools to investigate and prosecute hate crimes, offering greater protection to marginalized communities.

COALITION BUILDING

Activist ADAPT founder, Wade Blank, was born in 1940. Blank advocated for people with disabilities, first for their right to live independently outside of nursing homes, and then to have accessible transportation. ADAPT is a national grassroots organization that was founded in 1983, ADAPT has been at the forefront of the disability rights movement, organizing protests, marches, and other forms of civil disobedience to push for legislative changes that benefit the disability community. They have been instrumental in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990 and continue to work towards ensuring equal rights and access for all individuals with disabilities. ADAPT's tireless efforts have brought attention to the importance of independent living and self-determination for people with disabilities, making them a powerful force for positive change in our society.

In 1965, the Autism Society of America was formed by parents of autistic children to advocate for services. The Autism Society of America is a leading grassroots autism organization that has been dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by autism for over 50 years. Committed to promoting inclusion, acceptance, and support for individuals across the autism spectrum, the organization provides a wide range of resources, advocacy efforts, and community events. Through education, awareness campaigns, and outreach programs, the Autism Society strives to enhance the quality of life for those with autism and their loved ones.

Justice For All was founded by Justin Dart, Fred Fay and Becky Ogle in 1994. Justice For All is a disability organization that prides itself on advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities. Through various campaigns and initiatives, they work tirelessly to promote equality, accessibility, and inclusivity for all members of the disabled community. Their dedicated team of professionals and volunteers strive to raise awareness, provide support, and drive positive change to ensure that people with disabilities are given the same opportunities and treatment as everyone else. With a strong focus on empowerment and education, Justice For All continues to make a significant impact in advancing disability rights and fostering a more inclusive society.

EMPLOYMENT

National Disability Employment Awareness Month first started as just a week in 1945. Observed each October, is a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities to the workforce. This month-long campaign aims to raise awareness about disability employment issues and promote the importance of inclusive hiring practices. By highlighting the skills and talents of individuals with disabilities, National Disability Employment Awareness Month encourages employers to create more accessible and inclusive workplaces. It also serves as a reminder of the challenges that people with disabilities often face in finding meaningful employment opportunities.

In 1959, California's Fair Employment Practices Act is signed into law. It was a pivotal piece of legislation aimed at combating employment discrimination in the state. Enacted to protect employees from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, this landmark law was one of the first of its kind in the United States. By prohibiting discriminatory practices in hiring, promotion, and termination, the Act sought to ensure equal employment opportunities for all individuals. The California Fair Employment Practices Act of 1959 paved the way for future anti-discrimination laws and played a significant role in advancing workplace equality in the state.

Judith Heumann establishes Disabled in Action in New York City in 1970. The organization lobbies against unfair hiring practices and uses litigation for disability rights. It is ccomprised of passionate individuals with disabilities as well as allies, this organization was dedicated to advocating for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of society. Through grassroots campaigns, legislative efforts, and community outreach, Disabled in Action worked tirelessly to challenge societal barriers and promote accessibility and equality for all. Their trailblazing efforts laid the foundation for future advocacy initiatives and sparked a powerful movement that continues to drive progress and change today.

To read Part Two of this series where I highlight key events that happened in the areas of community, voting, and technology, click HERE.

To read Part Three of this series where I highlight key events that happened in the ares of education, healthcare, disability pride, and access & transportation, click HERE.

Think I forgot a key milestone? Or feel like you learned something you didn’t know? Please leave a comment below. We can keep the conversation going. :)