Department of Family Services Alert:

CONTACT INFORMATION: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

703-324-7948 TTY 711

DisabilityRights@fairfaxcounty.gov

Disability Rights and Resources, 12011 Government Center Parkway, Suite 708
Fairfax, VA 22035

Trina Mayhan-Webb
Director

Department Resources

Related Resources

Americans with Disabilities Act

ADA 35 Americans with Disabilities Act. Celebrate July 26, 2025 — (Credit ADA National Network (adata.org) 1-800-949-4232)

The Fairfax County Department of Family Services is honored to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Signed into law on July 26, 1990, the ADA ensures that persons with disabilities are afforded the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. It does so by prohibiting discrimination within the context of employment, telecommunications, and places of public accommodations, such as restaurants and movie theatres.

In Fairfax County, 8% of residents report living with a disability. That’s approximately 92,000 individuals. This number is even higher at the national level. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that up to 1 in 4 adult Americans have a disability. Fairfax County recognizes the importance of this monumental law and is committed to ensuring that its programs and services are delivered in the most accessible and integrated manner possible.

The National ADA Anniversary Celebration takes place on July 26, 2025. You can participate by visiting the ADA anniversary webpage and learn more about this important law, celebrate the anniversary, and share information.

Learn more about disability resources available in Fairfax County and the Fairfax Area Disability Services Board.

Board of Supervisors Proclamation

On Tuesday, July 15, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors recognized the anniversary of the ADA during their board meeting and celebrated the legislation's impact on ensuring people with disabilities have full participation in our society. Jamie Gibbs, vice-chair of the Fairfax Area Disability Services Board, accepted the proclamation on behalf of the board.

WHEREAS, on July 26, 1990, the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law, marking a pivotal civil rights law that created a nationwide mandate to eliminate discrimination against people with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, the ADA guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in areas including employment, state and local government services, transportation and public accommodations, laying the foundation for a more equitable and accessible society; and

WHEREAS, the 35th anniversary of the ADA offers an opportunity to reflect on the progress made toward full inclusion and to reaffirm Fairfax County’s commitment to supporting the rights and dignity of people with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, on the ADA Anniversary, July 26, everyone is encouraged to help shape a more inclusive future by recognizing the importance of disability inclusion and celebrating progress made under the ADA in workplaces, schools and communities; and

WHEREAS, Fairfax County celebrates the diverse identities, cultures and contributions of people with disabilities, recognizing their role in strengthening and enriching the community while also promoting accessibility, equity and inclusion through policies, programs and partnerships that support full participation; NOW THEREFORE

BE IT RESOLVED, that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, on behalf of all residents, hereby celebrates the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and recognizes its ongoing impact on promoting civil rights, inclusion and community for all residents with disabilities.

Jeffrery C. McKay, Chairman James N. Bierman, Jr., Supervisor
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Dranesville District

July 15, 2025