[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 122, 110th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8276--JULY 24, 2008

Proclamation 8276 of July 24, 2008
Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, 2008
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has helped tear down barriers
for millions of people living with disabilities. On the anniversary of
this important legislation, our Nation underscores our commitment to
ensuring that all individuals have an equal opportunity to realize their
full potential.
On July 26, 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed this groundbreaking
Act into law, better enabling citizens with disabilities to participate
fully in all aspects of life. Over the course of nearly two decades,
this Act has made our schools and workplaces more welcoming, helped
change attitudes that once seemed unchangeable, and expanded opportunity
for many exceptional Americans. The ADA is



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one of the most successful civil rights laws in our history and has been
an essential part of countless American lives.
My Administration is committed to working to empower those with
disabilities so that all our people can achieve the American dream.
Building on the success of the ADA, the New Freedom Initiative of 2001
has had a positive impact for many of our citizens. Technological
advances have helped individuals gain greater access to everyday life.
Students with disabilities are given the tools they need to succeed, and
in the workplace, innovative hiring and employment practices are helping
to integrate Americans with disabilities into the workforce. The Ticket
to Work and AbilityOne programs have helped them become more self-
sufficient by expanding access to employment. Our Nation has benefited
from the progress we have made since the enactment of the ADA, and it is
our responsibility to continue working toward a country where all people
are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
On this anniversary, we highlight our commitment to the ADA and
celebrate the progress that has been made toward full participation of
people with disabilities in our society.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 26, 2008, as a day in
celebration of the 18th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities
Act. I call on all Americans to celebrate the vital contributions of
individuals with disabilities as we work towards fulfilling the promise
of the ADA to give all our citizens the opportunity to live with
dignity, work productively, and achieve their dreams.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day
of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.
GEORGE W. BUSH