Disability Rights Movement

About

The Disability Rights Movement is a global social movement that seeks to secure equal opportunities and rights for people with disabilities. It emerged as a response to the systemic barriers and discrimination faced by individuals with disabilities in various aspects of life, including education, employment, housing, and transportation. The movement draws inspiration from other civil rights movements, such as the African American civil rights movement, and emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and peer support. Key milestones include the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibited discrimination in federal programs, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, which provided comprehensive civil rights protections. Activists like Ed Roberts and Judy Heumann played pivotal roles in advocating for these laws. The movement continues to push for accessibility, equal opportunities, and an end to institutionalization, ensuring that people with disabilities can live independently and fully participate in society.