Sen. Gordon Celebrates 34 Years of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Reflects on advocacy for continued advancements in disability rights

State Sen. Jeff Gordon (R-Woodstock) today celebrated the 34^th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and reflected on advancing the rights for those with disabilities.

He said, “Today is the 34th anniversary of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This is a landmark and historic civil rights bill passed by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President George H.W. Bush in 1990. I remember the moment. I recognize the achievements of the ADA as a Connecticut state senator and a medical doctor, and recognize the work ahead of us.

“For example, during this year’s legislative session, I championed a bipartisan bill that became law to improve access to medical equipment, hospitals, and health care offices for those who have physical disabilities (PA 24-113).

“Many Americans have disabilities of one form or another, be it physical, mental, or cognitive. They also have abilities. One of the ADA’s fundamental purposes is ‘to provide a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities’ by protecting ‘equality of opportunity’ because ‘physical or mental disabilities in no way diminish a person’s right to fully participate in all aspects of society,’ such as work, education, health care, public spaces, transportation, voting, communications, parking, housing, recreation, and living, through ‘reasonable accommodations.’ I agree.

“We live in challenging and polarized times, but I know firsthand that when we work together, we can get good things done. That’s part of my work ethic and of many, many people in our communities, state, and country. I encourage you to celebrate the 34 years of the ADA and recommit to what we can do during the next 34years and beyond. I continue to fight for all our individual and parental rights, and medical freedoms.”