Written by Malachi Mena
The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) was passed in 1990. Local disability educator and activist Priya Ray of DIYabled notes that many non-disabled individuals aren’t aware of the ADA and its policies, and makes an effort to raise awareness this Disability Pride month!
On Open Air’s series, This Crip Life, Priya Ray was joined by Vicki Young, a disabled law student to discuss and deep dive into the ADA. Ray began by defining it. She stated “the ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in several areas, including employment, transportation, public accommodations, communications and access to state and local government programs and services.”
Young went on to explain that there are 4 titles within the ADA. Title one is employment, title two is State and Local Governments, title three is Public Accommodations and Commercial Facilities, and title four is Telecommunication. Young stated that according to title one, employers cannot discriminate against a qualified disabled individual. She emphasized the word qualified, making it understood that if one lacks the merit or qualifications needed for a position, they are not guaranteed or entitled to such a position. Ray chimed in to point out that the ADA is in place to give disabled people equal rights, not an advantage.
Young mentioned that the ADA gives small businesses and religious institutions a pass on upholding these policies whilst encouraging these groups to do their best at providing equal treatment to disabled individuals. The two went on to discuss accessible housing, religious facilities and more regarding the policies of the ADA.
For more on this ADA conversation, check out this week’s episode of Open Air.
Additionally, local community sponsors are helping Asheville celebrate Disability Pride this July. Checkout diyabled.com for more on the events taking place throughout Asheville.