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Unlock the Mysteries of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) – – Understanding Your Disability Rights is Only a Few Clicks Away

August 28, 2018

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law passed in 1990. The ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including all public and private places that are open to the general public.

The ADA is divided into five major sections which cover jobs, state and local government services, public accommodations and services, telecommunications and transportation.

It can be hard to figure out how the ADA applies to you, especially if you are newly injured. A good place to start is ADATA.org for a quick overview of each section of the law, with helpful links to specific information and additional resources.

For detailed ADA information and technical assistance check out the Department of Justice’s website, (ada.gov). It provides an excellent introduction to the ADA (ada.gov/ada.intro) as well as straightforward information on featured topics — and how to file an ADA complaint (ada.gov/filing.complaint).

If you want to talk to someone, call the ADA Information Line: 800-514-0301 (voice) or 800-514-0383 (TTY).

2 responses to “Unlock the Mysteries of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) – – Understanding Your Disability Rights is Only a Few Clicks Away”

  1. Vera Turner says:

    Hi, my name is Vera Turner. I was born with Cerebral Palsy, Scoliosis and a form of Sickle Cell anemia and and have developed diabetes. I’m a member of a local assembly in my hometown. The previous Pastor understood my health conditions and allowed me to go the bathroom when needed. My current Pastor has stated that we only have ten minutes. He also stated that we go to the bathroom during Sunday school. Herein lies my problem. Because I have CP and am now diabetic, I can’t control when I have to go. For instance, I could’ve went when I first entered, so I may not have to go during allotted times. I’ve stated to the Pastor and his wife, that I take medication that causes me to have to go to the bathroom frequently…alongside CP that effects the function of my lower extremities. I have also explained that I am in a wheelchair, and it takes me a few minutes just to get situated to actualIy use the bathroom. I sing in the choir and am also the Worship and Praise leader for my church. I’ve been given an altimatim that if I can not control my bladder, I may have to give up my position as the Choir President and Worship leader. My question: Are they( the local assembly) within their legal rights in not allowing me the ample time and opportunity to go to the bathroom?? Not looking to sue or anything like that, I do want to know my rights in this situation because I thought that the American Disability policy applies here because of it being a public place/service…just as school is public. In college I was allowed to go to the bathroom when needed without any repercussions because of ADA. Does it not apply in this case?? Thank you for answering my questions. Sincerely, Ms. Vera Turner

    • Charles Bean says:

      Maybe you need to speak with your Pastor sharing not only your personal needs but share educational material about your situation. If not willing to listen, take it to the Church elder’s Board (Board of Directors).

      If no headway is made, find a church who accepts you for who you are, not what the want you to be!

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