ADA Generation – Edward Pahula

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I was 14 years old when the ADA was passed and by the age of 18 I realized the importance of the ADA. I experienced employment discrimination and struggled to receive reasonable accommodations in college. This sparked an interest in the ADA and I got involved with my local Center for Independent Living. During this process I totally changed my career path. I embraced the ADA and Independent Living in both my professional and personal life. I work hard every day to teach people about their rights as individuals with disabilities and assist people in reaching their personal goals. In my personal life, I became a father, home owner, and family man. Over time I have watched society’s attitude toward disability change and I see people looking at me more as a man, and a dad, and not just that guy rolling along in his wheelchair. I’m excited to see the changes the ADA will bring to both physical and attitudinal barriers in the next 25 years.