[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 118 (Friday, July 25, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1241]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              CELEBRATING THE 24TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ADA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BRUCE L. BRALEY

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 25, 2014

  Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and 
celebrate the 24th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
   For 24 years now, the ADA has secured for people with disabilities 
their most fundamental rights, and allowed them to integrate more fully 
in their communities. More than two decades ago, my hero, Tom Harkin 
spearheaded this legislation that would change the attitudes of so many 
in order to protect the civil rights of the 54 million Americans with 
disabilities. Like so many others, I thank him for his tireless 
advocacy in the United States Senate and his continued dedication to 
this important issue.
   I would also like to thank all of the organizations involved in this 
year's Johnson County ADA Celebration for bringing together a community 
of all walks of life, and recognizing that all people have unique 
skills, talents and abilities.
   Expanding access and opportunities for people with disabilities is 
something we must work to improve every day. There are obstacles that, 
thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act, have been all but 
eliminated and I look forward to seeing even more progress.

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