Nominate a White House Champion of Change for Disability Advocacy Across Generations

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a landmark civil rights law that promises equal access and equal opportunity -- regardless of ability. It secures each person's right to an independent life, and it enables our country and our economy to benefit from the talents and contributions of all Americans. The ADA’s legacy can be seen everywhere, whether you’re using a curb cut as you cross the street, using a sign language to catch every lyric at a concert, or receiving reasonable accommodations to do your most efficient work possible. While the Federal government has led many efforts to implement the ADA to the fullest extent possible, much of the success of the ADA is due to the persistence of long-time state and local disability advocates who have advanced inclusion in their communities.  

Despite the many successes of the ADA, non-discrimination, full inclusion, equal opportunity are still not a reality for many individuals with disabilities. Thankfully, in addition to the of these initial ADA advocates, there are numerous young Americans with disabilities who are working to uphold and expand the spirit of the ADA whether it’s getting disability history taught in their colleges or ensuring that social media is accessible. That’s why we’re asking you to help us identify and honor both long-time local disability rights advocates and young leaders with disabilities who are dedicated to disability advocacy and advancing the legacy of the ADA for the next 25 years to come.

Nominees may include:

• Leaders who advocate for equal employment of people with disabilities
• Advocates who work to improve accessible public transit
• Citizens who fight for the creation of barrier free programs and public spaces
• Community members who create innovative ways to make communication accessible
• Leaders who help organize efforts for greater inclusion of students with disabilities in higher education settings

Click on the link below to submit your nomination by midnight Thursday, June 18 (be sure to choose Americans with Disabilities Act in the "Theme of Service" field of the nomination form):

http://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/champions/nominate/

We are looking forward to hosting this event and to highlighting the great work communities across the country are doing to ensure that the American dream is accessible to all.

Maria Town is the Associate Director for Disability Community Engagement in the White House Office of Public Engagement.