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Connecticut Asylum for the Education and Instruction of Deaf and Dumb Persons
The first school in the United States to focus on children with special needs was opened in 1817. It focused on children who were deaf and non-verbal. A few years later, it was renamed to The American School for the Deaf. The American School for the Deaf is still in operation and remains the oldest permanent school for the deaf in the United States. -
The Rehabilitation Act
The Rehabilitation Act was passed by Congress, which created Section 504. Section 504 stated that no individual with disabilities could be discriminated against via participation, denied funding, or any other discrimination under any program receiving federal funding. This Act was a great start in disability rights however, there were no policies set up to ensure the law was actively in place. -
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA)
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act was passed, which required all public schools to provide equal access to education for all students with disabilities. This Act established Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) to allow for mainstreaming, and Individual Education Programs (IEP) for a more individualized learning experience while allowing parental participation. -
504 Sit-Ins
Sit-ins for disability rights began to make sure Section 504 was being enforced after the government failed to implement it into law. Over 120 individuals with disabilities and allies filled into San Francisco Health, Education, and Welfare building, refusing to leave until their demands were met. Some allied groups that supported included the Black Panther Party, Gay Men's Butterfly Brigade, Salvation Army, the United Farm Workers, Glide Memorial Church, and the Gray Panthers. -
Regulations for Section 504 Signed
After 28 days of sit-ins, protests, and pressure from the media, regulations for Section 504 were signed into place. Joseph Califano, who was Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, signed the regulations. The 504 Sit-In became the longest sit-in of a federal building in history. At this time, there were an estimated 35 million Americans with disabilities. Currently, there are an estimated 61 million Americans with disabilities. -
Section 504 Regulations Issued
The Section 504 regulations, as implemented, covered Education, Employment, Healthcare, and Social Services. Students with disabilities must have equal access to education. Employers receiving federal funding cannot discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities. Patients with disabilities must have access to appropriate medical treatment and services. Individuals with disabilities must have access to social service programs, like housing assistance, without discrimination. -
Special Olympics Officially Recognized
Although the Special Olympics was founded on August 2, 1968, it was not officially recognized by the International Olympic Committee until 1988. Founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who wanted to provide individuals with disabilities a chance to play and participate in sports, as they were often excluded from such opportunities. The first Special Olympics games had around 1,000 athletes from 26 states and Canada. Currently, the Special Olympics has over 5 million athletes from over 190 countries. -
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
President George Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act into law. This prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in employment, transportation, and public accommodation. This ensures that businesses, public transport, and telecommunication services are all accessible to individuals with disabilities. The Department of Justice enforces ADA regulations. ADA has a significant impact on promoting inclusive practices and accessibility in education. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
IDEA updated the previous EHA law. In addition to the EHA laws, IDEA implemented four new parts. It established the Office of Special Education Programs, obligating districts to follow the six principles if they receive financial support, early intervention programs, and resources to support projects or grants. IDEA established 13 eligibility categories for special education and transition programs, with an emphasis on person-first language. The EHA law built the foundation, and IDEA refined it. -
Chicago Disability Pride Parade
This was the first Disability Pride Parade in the United States; it was held in Chicago. It was inspired by the Boston Disability Pride Day held in 1990. This year will mark the 22nd Annual Chicago Disability Pride Parade. -
US Department of Health and Human Services Finalizes Rule to add to Section 504
The US Department of Health and Human Services finalized a rule to add to Section 504, as well as updated the regulations. It specifically prohibits discrimination in medical treatment, prohibits any diagnoses from discounting the value of a life, defines what accessibility means for websites, adopts standards for accessible medical diagnostic equipment, and clarifies obligations to provide services in the most integrated setting. Additionally, it updates requirements to make them ADA-compliant.