250 years ago, the Declaration of Independence was adopted, proclaiming the 13 colonies to be free from Great Britain. In Independence Hall, the founders set forth the ideals of freedom, opportunity, and independence that would go on to shape the nation. For individuals with disabilities who strive for the same goals and well-being in America, most of the progress has been witnessed over the past several decades.
Disability has been part of America’s story since its founding and first president, George Washington, whose stepdaughter lived with epilepsy and died in adolescence. President Franklin D. Roosevelt had paralysis caused by polio, and John F. Kennedy’s sister Eunice Kennedy Shriver founded the Special Olympics in 1968 and continued to raise awareness around the globe for intellectual disabilities. That history is reflected in both personal stories and policy.
Over the past 70 years, many other important developments have strengthened financial security and independence for individuals with disabilities. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) was signed into law by President Eisenhower in 1956, initially limiting eligibility to permanently and totally disabled workers ages 50–64. In 1960, eligibility expanded to disabled workers of all ages. President Lyndon B. Johnson signed Medicaid into law in 1965, providing health coverage to individuals with disabilities.
President Nixon established Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in 1972, with payments beginning in 1974, providing income for adults with disabilities. More recently, the creation of ABLE accounts in 2014 gave individuals with disabilities an opportunity to save for qualified expenses while maintaining eligibility for means-tested government benefits.
Of all this legislation, arguably the most significant milestone came in 1990, with the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by President George H.W. Bush. This monumental act prohibited discrimination based on disability and expanded access to employment, education, transportation, and public spaces for individuals with disabilities.
Alongside financial progress, there has also been meaningful advancement in educational opportunities, assistive technology, workplace inclusion, and the growing awareness that every individual deserves equal opportunity and the pursuit of happiness.
As we celebrate 250 years of the United States of America, we also celebrate the progress that has helped bring the ideals our founding fathers penned on July 4, 1776, closer to reality for more Americans. The climb for progress is never complete, but it’s worth pausing to reflect on where we are and where we started.
