The 26th Anniversary of the ADA

Today marks the 26^th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a civil rights law that was established to protect people with differing abilities from discrimination. Since 1990, the ADA has helped millions of Americans with differing abilities enter the workforce and achieve independence. It has helped Melwood provide employment opportunities and supportive services to thousands of people and it inspires us to continue our journey towards a fully inclusive community.

In February, Melwood tackled one of the most critical issues affecting people with differing abilities, employment and income inequality, by fully eliminating our use of section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).  Section 14(c) allows companies that employ workers with differing abilities to pay them subminimum wages under a special wage certificate. It is a practice we believe stands in stark contrast to the principles that govern ones basic civil rights, and the protections outlined in the Americans with Disabilities Act.  Disability advocates around the country share our concerns regarding this provision, which reflects an outdated and narrow view of what workers with differing abilities are capable of, and how they are perceived. We invite each of you to join us in our efforts to embrace equality and independence for all Americans. To learn more about the Americans with Disabilities Act please visit www.ada.gov