This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The landmark legislation was signed into law on July 26, 1990 by President George H.W. Bush. Celebrations to mark the 25^th year are being held across the country.

The ADA and the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) provide civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. The ADA and ADAAA also assure equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities for access to businesses, employment, transportation, state and local government programs and services, and telecommunications.

To commemorate the 25^th Anniversary of the signing, the ADA National Network and its ten regional ADA Centers are asking individuals, government organizations and faith-based communities to sign a pledge to “recognize the progress that has been made by reaffirming the principles of equality and inclusion and recommitting...to reach full ADA compliance.” The ADA National Network hopes to collect 25,000 signatures to coincide with the 25 years of the ADA.

The ADA National Network created a special website (http://adaanniversary.org) where individuals and organizations can go to pledge their support. The site is a tool kit for not only the pledge, the 25^th Anniversary celebration and events, but it also houses additional information on the ADA, as well as research and training opportunities. Signatures of those signing the pledge will be displayed (after review) on this website and information provided will only be used to keep signatories up to date on ADA National Network activities. Become a part of the nationwide celebration and recommitment - PLEDGE ON! to the ADA!  For more information related to local training and outreach related to the ADA,  contact Shernita Bethea, HRPDC Housing and Human Services Administrator, by phone 757-420-8300 or email, sbethea@hrpdcva.gov