Honoring the ADA and the People Who Continue to Move It Forward
Every July, communities across the country celebrate Disability Pride Month, a time to recognize the achievements, contributions, and lived experiences of people with disabilities. It is also an opportunity to reflect on one of the most significant civil rights laws in American history—the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Signed into law on July 26, 1990, the ADA transformed the landscape of accessibility and civil rights by prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, public services, transportation, schools, and places of public accommodation. Thirty-six years later, its impact can be seen in countless ways, from curb cuts and accessible entrances to workplace accommodations and expanded opportunities for independent living.
While these changes have improved daily life for millions of Americans, Disability Pride Month is also a reminder that accessibility is not simply about buildings or policies. It is about ensuring that every person has the opportunity to participate fully in their community, make decisions about their own life, and be treated with dignity and respect.
Celebrating Progress While Looking Ahead
The ADA marked an important turning point, but the work of creating truly inclusive communities continues every day.
Barriers still exist. Some are physical, while others involve communication, employment, transportation, or public perception. Organizations like The Whole Person work alongside individuals, families, advocates, and community partners to help remove those barriers and expand opportunities for independent living.
Disability Pride Month is not only a celebration of how far we have come. It is also a recognition of the people who continue to advocate for equal access, greater inclusion, and a future where disability is viewed as a natural part of the human experience rather than a limitation.
Join Us for Our ADA 36th Anniversary Celebration
One of the best ways to celebrate Disability Pride Month is by coming together as a community.
On Friday, July 24, 2026, The Whole Person will host its ADA 36th Anniversary Celebration, honoring the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the progress made over the past three and a half decades. The celebration will feature guest speakers, food, games, prizes, and an opportunity to recognize the advocates whose work continues to strengthen our community. More importantly, it is a chance to celebrate the people who are at the heart of the Independent Living movement.
Whether you have been involved with The Whole Person for years or are joining us for the first time, we would love to welcome you.
Event Details
ADA 36th Anniversary Celebration
Friday, July 24, 2026
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
The Whole Person
Learn more or register here:
Why These Celebrations Matter
Events like this are about more than recognizing an important anniversary. They remind us that real progress happens when people come together to learn from one another, share experiences, and continue advocating for inclusive communities.
Every conversation, every new relationship, and every opportunity to educate others helps move that mission forward. The ADA gave millions of Americans important legal protections, but creating communities where everyone feels welcome requires ongoing commitment from all of us.
Everyone Has a Role to Play
Disability Pride Month is for everyone.
Whether you are a person with a disability, a family member, a caregiver, an employer, a community partner, or simply someone who wants to build a more inclusive community, your support matters.
At The Whole Person, we believe that independence begins with opportunity, grows through community, and thrives when people are empowered to make their own choices.
This July, we invite you to celebrate not only the history of the ADA, but the people whose courage, resilience, and advocacy continue to shape a better future.
We hope you will join us on July 24 as we celebrate 36 years of progress—and look ahead to everything still possible.
The Whole Person
3710 Main Street
Kansas City, MO 64111
Phone: (816) 561-0304
