Date of Award
3-1995
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Abstract
This thesis explores the impact and implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark federal civil rights law enacted in 1990. The ADA aims to eliminate discrimination against individuals with disabilities, ensuring equal access to employment, public accommodations, transportation, and telecommunications. The thesis reviews the historical challenges faced by people with disabilities, such as societal exclusion and limited legal protections, and highlights the progress made through legislative measures like the ADA.
Key topics include employer responsibilities under the ADA, such as providing reasonable accommodations, removing architectural barriers, and ensuring accessibility without causing undue hardship. The thesis also addresses misconceptions about the capabilities of disabled individuals and outlines practical steps for compliance, including job description adjustments, workplace modifications, and awareness training. Cost-effective solutions for accessibility are proposed to help employers adapt without significant financial burden.
By offering procedural guidelines, the thesis seeks to foster a positive attitude among employers and support the integration of individuals with disabilities into the workforce and society. It emphasizes the ADA’s role in promoting equality, reducing dependency, and enhancing productivity, ultimately benefiting both individuals with disabilities and the broader economy. This work serves as a resource for employers and advocates committed to advancing disability rights.
Recommended Citation
Parsons, Miriam J., "The Americans with Disabilities Act" (1995). Theses. 1176.
https://digitalcommons.lindenwood.edu/theses/1176
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.