On 25th Anniversary, City Official Addresses Chicago’s ADA Advancements


Sunday marked the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, landmark legislation that set standards for everything from accessing buildings and public transportation to mandating equal access in employment.

How has the world changed for the disabled in the last quarter century? Here to discuss that is Karen Tamley, commissioner of the Chicago Mayor's Office for Persons with Disabilities.

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Upcoming local events

A photography exhibition at the Chicago History Museum, titled Access for All, features works by photojounalist Tom Olin that portray the struggle of the disability community during the movement that culiminated in the signing of the ADA 25 years ago. The exhibition is open through March 10, 2016 and is on loan from Access Living.

On Tuesday, August 18, Access Living hosts a panel discussion on accessible transportation in Chicago. Guests include Marca Bristo, Mike Ervin, Rene Luna, Judy Panko Reis, and Kate Yannias. Discussion runs from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Access Living, 115 W. Chicago Ave.

For more information and to be part of the anniversary year events, visit The ADA Legacy Project website.

Below, a look back at the recent history of the disability rights movement, from 1961 to the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990, and beyond.

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