Washington, DC – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Vice Chair of the House Republican Conference, participated in several celebrations today recognizing the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

On July 26, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed the ADA – which was passed with bipartisan support in both Houses of Congress – into law.  The ADA prohibited discrimination against people with disabilities, ensured equal access in public accommodations, and spurred greater opportunities for education, employment, and independent living.  

“The ADA was one of the most important civil rights achievements in U.S. history,” said Rep. McMorris Rodgers at a press conference today hosted by Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD) and Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA), two of the original champions of the 1990 law.  “This landmark bill gave more than 50 million Americans – including my son Cole, who was born with Down syndrome – the opportunity to live the American Dream.”

“I want to thank the incredible community of people with disabilities – a community that welcomed me and my family with open arms – for organizing and advocating for this bill,” said Rep. McMorris Rodgers in her House floor speech today.  “They are ordinary citizens who – by working together in a common cause – achieved extraordinary things.”

“We’ve come a long way in 20 years, but we still have a long way to go.  Let’s use today’s anniversary as inspiration to create a ‘more perfect union’ for people with disabilities and all Americans.”

Rep. McMorris Rodgers will join President Obama and several other members of Congress at a commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the ADA at the South Lawn later today.  

On July 21, 2010, the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) recognized Rep. McMorris Rodgers for her leadership on behalf of disabled Americans by honoring her with their “Justice for All” award.

To watch the Congresswoman’s floor speech today, click here.