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But the ADA did not cover everything , and the law did not eradicate microaggressions , prejudice , and violence against people with disabilities . There is still discrimination in hiring and receiving accommodations at work , and only 19 % of disabled people are employed , compared to 66 % of nondisabled people . People with disabilities are twice as likely to experience violence . Establishments often look for loopholes in the ADA to exclude disabled people from their business . And it wasn ’ t until the Affordable Care Act that insurers could not deny a person with a disability from signing up for healthcare .
There is hope that these injustices will become a memory as disabled people advocate for their rights and come together to enact change , as they always do . It was because of this activism that we have the Americans with Disabilities Act to begin with , and why we have the Affordable Care Act . It ’ s why we have the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 , which broadened the definition of disability in the context of the law to make sure more folks were protected under it .
As leaders , both disabled and not , I passionately believe it is our duty to stand with those who stand for justice , and to lend our voice and platform for the betterment of all disabled people . We continue to see human rights groups come together in the fight for social justice – looking ahead and ensuring we pursue equality for people with disabilities and other vulnerable populations together .
Easterseals is a network of over 35,000 staff who , on a daily basis , serve people with disabilities , their caregivers and families in a very personal and impactful way . Easterseals is 101 years old and has been in existence this long because of the great care we provide to the youngest child to the oldest senior .
Angela ’ s inspiration ?
“ My parents are my inspiration . They took a gigantic leap of faith to join the U . S . Navy at the height of the Civil Rights movement , move their family across the country from South Carolina to Southern California and launch us into a global trajectory – experiencing the world , different people and cultures .”
Angela F . Williams , President & CEO , Easterseals
People with disabilities represent 25 % of the population : This large group
must be included in society so that they can fully participate in their communities . Diversity , equity and inclusion of all people makes us a better society .