media, law and policy
To mark the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Southeast ADA Center has launched a special virtual interview series. In this series, we speak to leaders in the disability rights movement who are advancing equal rights through their tireless efforts. The interview series and resources are available on the website Section 504 at 50.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protects the rights of individuals with eligible disabilities from discrimination. The law’s non-discrimination requirements apply to employers and organizations receiving financial assistance from federal departments or agencies, including the US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
These organizations and employers include many hospitals, nursing homes, mental health centers and welfare programs. Section 504 prohibits organizations and employers from excluding or denying individuals with disabilities equal opportunity to receive program benefits and services. It defines the rights of individuals with disabilities to participate in and access program benefits and services.
The Section 504 at 50 interview series is hosted by Peter Blank University Professors, Jonathan Martinis and Barry Whaley of the Southeast ADA Center and Barton Bratt Institute. Guests in the series are:
- Andrew Imparato, Disability Rights, California
- Charlotte MacLane Narpo, World Bank
- Emily Radau, author and disability rights activist
- John Wodach, Former Disability Rights Director, U.S. Department of Justice
- Judy Human, author and disability activist
- Kathy Martinez, Disability and Accessibility Strategy Consultant
- Rex Frieden, educator and disability rights activist
- Olmstead v. LC Artist and Plaintiff Lois Curtis
- Lydia XZ Brown, Center for Democracy and Technology
- Mohammed Ali Roofty, Global Initiative for Inclusive ICT
- Sanchin Pavithran, Access Board
- Sandy Ho, Borealis Philanthropy
- Tom Olin, social documentary writer
The Southeast ADA Center, based in Lexington, Kentucky, is one of 10 regional centers in the ADA National Network and provides ADA information, training and guidance. The Southeast ADA Center is a project of the Barton Bratt Institute.
