ADA News

I’m writing this letter to acknowledge the 10^th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act on July 26^th, 2000. The Americans with Disabilities Act is civil rights legislation that promotes integration, equal opportunity and inclusion for persons with disabilities signed by President Bush.

Fifty-three million Americans with disabilities utilize the law in the country, including 30,000 Alaskans. You will notice the effect of this law, when you use a ramp to access a building, use the bigger restroom stalls, and remember to not use the designated parking spaces (or get a $100 fine).

While Ketchikan and the rest of Alaska are enjoying these apparent accessible features, there is still a lot to be done to ensure continued access by all persons. For example, local building codes should reflect access guidelines, designs for new construction and modifications need approval from an ADA specialist, and while physical barriers are being addressed, attitudes about disabilities are not.

In order for the spirit and intent of the Americans with Disabilities Act to continue making a difference in our community, we need to educate ourselves about the significance of the law. What does the ADA do? It provides freedom to move and choose goods and services most appropriate for families and ourselves.

Take one moment, to thank the businesses that have installed ramps, and the Borough for providing the lift-equipped buses, and thank the legislators in D.C. for their continued support for the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Thank you,