ADA for All: How Accessibility Improves Life for Everyone

Jul 26th 1990 marks a historic day in the lives of million Americans across the country. This is the day the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law. It marked a historic step toward equality and inclusion for people with disabilities. Yet, this holiday should be celebrated by everyone as it quietly improves life for all of us.

Accessibility in Action

Think about the last time you:

• Rolled a suitcase across a curb cut

• Watched a video with captions in a noisy café

• Used a push-button door while carrying groceries

• Navigated a website that was clean, simple, and mobile-friendly

These conveniences are all rooted in ADA principles. They’re examples of universal design — the idea that when we build for accessibility, we build better for everyone.

Our very own Kelly Stout, a case manager at St. John of God, is a fighter for ADA!

Essential for All

Imagine a parent pushing a stroller, a traveler with luggage, or someone recovering from an injury. The ramps, elevators, and wide doorways designed for wheelchair access suddenly become essential for them too.

Captions help not just the deaf and hard of hearing, but also language learners, multitaskers, and anyone watching content in silence. Accessible websites aren’t just screen-reader friendly — they’re faster, clearer, and easier to use for all visitors.

All of these designs, whether you realize it or not, make life easier for all of us. These designs and everyday features only became reality after ADA was signed into law. This was a fight done by and for adults with disabilities yet is enjoyed by all.

So, lets celebrate this historic moment and enjoy the accessible features we have. But lets also reflect and realize there is still much work to be done to truly have an accessible society.