As we approach the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Edward M. Kennedy Institute is pleased to announce two upcoming programs to commemorate the landmark legislation. We hope that you will join us for these exciting programs that will be available virtually across the country.
Senator Edward M. Kennedy was a staunch advocate for civil rights for everyone and he elevated human dignity in his fight for inclusion. He brought this belief and passion to the forefront in his work on the ADA. Senator Kennedy’s leadership and ability to work across the aisle played a major role in ensuring that Americans with disabilities could live productive lives and be free from discrimination in the workplace and public accommodations.
As we commemorate the 30th anniversary of this major civil rights legislation, we must all take pause and think how we can continue Senator Kennedy’s legacy in protecting the rights of Americans across the country.
Very best,
Lauren Scribi
Director of Programs and Government Relations
The Kennedy Institute joins the George and Barbara Bush Foundation, National Organization on Disability, TIRR Memorial Hermann, Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics, The Harkin Institute, and Higher Ground Productions, in convening key activists, advocates, and policymakers who helped make the Americans with Disabilities Act a reality for a virtual, bipartisan commemoration of the landmark civil rights legislation.
Moderated by Judy Woodruff, managing editor and anchor of PBS’s NewsHour program, the conversation will have several special guest appearances including:
Boyden Gray, former White House advisor for President George H.W. Bush
Former U.S. Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA)
Carolyn Osolinik, former Judiciary Committee Staff Attorney for Senator Edward M. Kennedy
On July 26, the Kennedy Institute, Harkin Institute for Public Policy and Citizen Engagement, Dole Institute of Politics, and the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum, will host an online celebration and rally to honor the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The virtual program will commemorate this significant civil rights legislation and look ahead to ways that everyone can continue to break down barriers for people with disabilities.
Join the Institute on Instagram and Twitter to hear from special guests including:
Former U.S. Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA)
Former U.S. Senator Bob Dole (R-KS)
Claudia Gordon, first deaf Black female lawyer in the United States
Judy Heumann, first Special Advisor for International Disability Rights at the U.S. Department of State under President Barack Obama
