The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)

The American Association of People with Disabilities(AAPD) is the nation’s largest disability rights organization.
They promote equal opportunity, economic power, independent living, and political participation for people
with disabilities. Members, including people with disabilities and their family, friends, and supporters,
represent a powerful force for change.

The American Association of People with Disabilities is a convener, connector, and catalyst for change,
increasing the political and economic power of people with disabilities.

As a national cross-disability rights organization, AAPD advocates for full civil rights for the over
60 million Americans with disabilities by promoting equal opportunity, economic power, independent living,
and political participation.

Convener
Justin Dart, father of the ADA and one of the founders of AAPD, often called for solidarity among all who
love justice and equality. The disability community is massive and incredibly diverse.
As a convener, AAPD is a cross disability organization that builds trust and unity through open,
honest conversations. When we stand in solidarity on any issue, we have the power to create lasting change.

Connector
Disability is a natural part of the human experience that influences all of us. As a connector,
AAPD is a bridge that joins the disability community with our friends, adversaries, family, businesses,
schools, and the community at large, amplifying a powerful voice for change.

Catalyst
Like champions of justice before us have proven, seemingly underestimated actions lead to significant
transformation. As a catalyst, AAPD is action-oriented, building chain reactions that increase the rate
and speed of change. A small spark can ignite extraordinary results.

History of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Disability Rights Movement
This exhibit celebrates just some of the many groups and people who made the ADA possible, explores how
and why it was passed, and concludes by looking at some of the major challenges we’re facing now.
The ADA changed America, but there is a lot of work left to be done.