Reference no: EM133373304

Article 1: Celebrating 30 Years of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Over the past thirty years, the ADA has made it possible for so many of our fellow citizens to participate in the workforce, in government, and in every area of our society in ways they were previously unable without great difficulty. The law breathed new life into the words of our Declaration of Independence-that all are 'created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Indeed, the ADA was, in so many ways, a declaration of independence for the millions of Americans living with disabilities, yearning not only to be seen and accepted but to be treated equally as they pursue happiness and the American dream. And it set a global standard, with its provisions adopted by other countries around the world.

As we celebrate this anniversary, let us remember that Americans with disabilities still face many hurdles in employment, education, access to health care, accessible technology, and the ability to live independently. I hope our country will use this moment not only to reflect on the enormous difference we have made for people with disabilities but also to rededicate ourselves to the task of continuing that work. I want to take a moment to thank a number of my colleagues and former colleagues on both sides of the aisle who were instrumental in getting the ADA passed and signed into law.

Article 2: Doors Opening for the Disabled, May 25, 1990

For an estimated 43 million disabled individuals-one-sixth of the population-the Americans with Disabilities Act is a long overdue "Emancipation Proclamation" that extends to them the legal protections granted to racial minorities and women 26 years ago. For many of the four million businesses it will affect, it is a source of trepidation.

"I can't give you any numbers, but it will impose substantial costs," said Fred Krebs of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. "There's a very real fear of the potential for litigation and the obligations it will impose." The bill's impact will be measured not so much in ramps and grab bars, but in how employers, stores, banks, and other private businesses think about and treat the disabled. The legislation, considered the most significant civil rights bill since the 1964 Civil Rights Act, envisions a degree of "accommodation" of the disabled well beyond what society has been willing to show.

Exactly how much accommodation is required is a question that even the bill's proponents acknowledge will be partly decided in the courts. The legislation states only that whatever constitutes an "undue burden" on a business or an employer is too much. That standard, the bill says, will vary depending on the size and nature of the business.

Though the discrimination might be impossible to prove, the legislation would make it illegal for a clothing store or beauty salon to deny someone a job on the basis of a facial disfigurement. The bill envisions that employers will remove architectural barriers, modify jobs, provide aides and alter work schedules for disabled employees, as long as the changes do not cause significant difficulty or expense.

In your own words, write an argumentative paragraph regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act. Your argument should include a claim, counterclaim, and rebuttal. Use quotes from the articles to support your claim. Your response should be at least five sentences long.