Sharon from California
By Benetech, posted on August 27, 2020How has the ADA impacted your life regarding travel/mobility, education, employment, or any other aspect?
Progressive vision loss resulted in a career change. The ADA through the Department of Rehabilitation Blind Field Services provided for blind school education to learn how to navigate, utilize a computer, cook and read Braille for job readiness. Further, ADA facilitated my ability to finish my doctorate degree with necessary accommodations.
Can you share a “before and after” experience; e.g., before the ADA I couldn’t do X or was denied access to Y, and thanks to the ADA I can do Z.
Before the ADA I was devastated with a failed career plan and hopeless. After the ADA I was able to learn necessary skills for basic survival with restored hope in career interest.
What advances in disability rights would you like to see in the next 30 years?
Universal availability of Braille in the community (e.g., restaurant menus, etc). Universal availability of JAWS computer access in public spaces (e.g., libraries).