ADA awareness spreads campuswide

By: Soraya Herbert

As the American with Disabilities Act celebrate’s its 25th Anniversary of being passed. The Office of Disability Services is spreading awareness of the improvements have been made, but also uncovered that there is still room for improvement. 

For many people who are able-bodied, they may not realize how life-changing the ADA has been for people with disabilities. Thanks to the ADA, which is an extension of the 1964 Civil Rights Act that Congress passed with bipartisan support, the nearly one in five Americans with disabilities can take a legal stand against the discrimination they face daily in so many aspects of their lives.

“If feel that Texas State, would do what is necessary to keep balance in the student community and make sure that students with disabilities can achieve the best educational experience as possible,” said Sergio.

Photo taken by: Soraya Herbert

There has been many changes to Texas State since the implementation of the ADA.

"There are ramps everywhere now, just like the stairs. It gives people that are handicapped a way to get around efficiently,” said Evan Cruz. 

Photo taken by: Samuel Ramierez

Earlier this year, President Obama celebrated the 25th anniversary of the ADA in the East room of the white house.

 “Thanks to the ADA, the places that comprise our shared American life—schools, workplaces, movie theaters, courthouses, buses, baseball stadiums, national parks—they truly belong to everyone,” said President Obama in White House blog post. 

Despite the progress of the ADA, still 25 years after there are still issues that need to be fixed. Less than 20 percent of people with disabilities were employed last year, according to the U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Along with the employment issue, the education is another thing that is lacking. Students believe that there is still more steps to go in aspects of educating the public of the ADA. 

“ For example, there is disability awareness week or month but I feel that there's no education that goes along with it. It's just, 'oh, acknowledge it' and it's acknowledged but it's not educating people,” said special education major, Emily Parma.

Photo taken by: Holly Henrichsen

The ADA effects everyone. The elevators and ramps on campus make students commute to class easier. 

”I do use the resources the campus provides. Mainly in my residence hall because I live on the eighth floor, but I usually use the stairs anywhere else because I don't need to use the ramps to get to class,” said Donevan Gonzales.

Photo taken by: Dezmond Jarboe-Moore

Granted, there are improvements that have been made to the ADA but student, Crystal  Cohen, stays “a lot of people with disabilities would not be able to come here”.

The diversity of this campus is one of most important aspects to the student body of Texas State and as our community grows as does the need to spread awareness to help those with disabilities. Let’s celebrate this month as students who can all have the same opportunity to excel in life.