The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was first signed into law on July 26, 1990, by President George H. W. Bush. It was expanded in a later amendment in January 2009.

The law is intended to prevent discrimination against people with permanent disabilities. It allows our disabled citizens better access to employment and training opportunities, as well as public accommodations, transportation and government services.

While the ADA law has been the subject of criticism, such as from business owners who argue that the required modifications are not always needed, most would agree that the law has been successful in “evening the playing field” for the nation’s disabled citizens.

Saturday, the BAIN Inc. Center for Independent Living again celebrated the anniversary of the law’s signing, with a parade and a program. This is a wonderful event that symbolizes the great effects the law has had on improving the lives of those who are disabled or temporarily-handicapped.

That’s an anniversary that we can all celebrate.