The Americans with Disabilities Act turned 25 on July 26th.  Communities, organizations and individuals across the country have been celebrating this important milestone in the months and weeks leading up to the anniversary.  But while the ADA has made great strides toward full inclusion of people with disabilities in all areas of life, there is still much work to be done.

For example, the “built environment” is one easy way to see how far we’ve come since passage of the ADA.  Take a look at your own community and the places you frequent.  Where are the accessible entrances?  Are they on the front of the building or tucked around back?  New buildings, such as the one pictured at right, often feature universally accessible front entrances that allow everyone access through the main entrance.  This is one example of full inclusion in the built environment.

Continue reading article on RTC: Rural website: http://rtc.ruralinstitute.umt.edu/ada-25-reflecting-on-inclusion/