Jacob from California

How has the ADA impacted your life regarding travel/mobility, education, employment, or any other aspect?

ADA has allowed me to be able to go to school and receive my materials in braille. Also ADA has allowed me to have more time to complete my assignments and get them transcribed into print for my teachers. The ADA has allowed me to have accommodations when out in public or at events when I need a tactile sign interpreter. The ADA is important to me because it provides resources for me to be independent, to travel, and to feel like I am part of the community.

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.

I was born after the ADA started so my experience is different. I did go to a national bowling tournament where the organization didn’t allow for me to be told the pin numbers on the first day. My mom called an advocate to find out my rights under the ADA. The next day my mom informed the organization that my request was reasonable and if they didn’t allow her to tell me the pin numbers, she would hire an attorney. Needless to say, my mom was able to pin spot for me the rest of the tournament.

What advances in disability rights would you like to see in the next 30 years?

I am not sure. Society and technology are changing so fast. I am hoping that when I graduate next year, I can get a job.