Enabling Acts: The Hidden Story of How the Americans with Disabilities Act Gave the Largest US Minority Its Rights

Name: Enabling Acts: The Hidden Story of How the Americans with Disabilities Act Gave the Largest US Minority Its Rights
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Book Synopsis: The first major behind-the-scenes account of the history, passage, and impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)—the landmark moment for disability rights The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is the widest-ranging and most comprehensive piece of civil rights legislation ever passed in the United States, and it has become the model for disability-based laws around the world. Yet the surprising story behind how the bill came to be is little known. In this riveting account, acclaimed disability scholar Lennard J. Davis delivers the first on-the-ground narrative of how a band of leftist Berkeley hippies managed to make an alliance with upper-crust, conservative Republicans to bring about a truly bipartisan bill. Based on extensive interviews with all the major players involved including legislators and activists, Davis recreates the dramatic tension of a story that is anything but a dry account of bills and speeches. Rather, it’s filled with one indefatigable character after another, culminating in explosive moments when the hidden army of the disability community stages scenes like the iconic “Capitol Crawl” or an event when students stormed Gallaudet University demanding a “Deaf President Now!” From inside the offices of newly formed disability groups to secret breakfast meetings surreptitiously held outside the White House grounds, here we meet countless unsung characters, including political heavyweights and disability advocates on the front lines. “You want to fight?” an angered Ted Kennedy would shout in an upstairs room at the Capitol while negotiating the final details of the ADA. Congressman Tony Coelho, whose parents once thought him to be possessed by the devil because of his epilepsy, later became the bill’s primary sponsor. There’s Justin Dart, adorned in disability power buttons and his signature cowboy hat, who took to the road canvassing 50 states, and people like Patrisha Wright, also known as “The General,” Arlene Myerson or “the brains,” “architect” Bob Funk, and visionary Mary Lou Breslin, who left the hippie highlands of the West to pursue equal rights in the marble halls of DC.

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Discover the untold story behind the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in "Enabling Acts: The Hidden Story of How the Americans with Disabilities Act Gave the Largest US Minority Its Rights". This groundbreaking book by acclaimed disability scholar Lennard J. Davis takes you on a riveting journey through the history, struggles, and triumphs that led to the enactment of this landmark piece of legislation.

The Americans with Disabilities Act is not just any law - it is the most comprehensive and wide-ranging civil rights legislation ever passed in the United States. Its impact has reverberated across the world, serving as a model for disability-based laws everywhere. Prepare to be captivated as Davis reveals the surprising alliance formed between leftist Berkeley hippies and conservative Republicans, showcasing how they worked together against all odds to create a truly bipartisan bill.

Davis's extensive interviews with legislators and activists allow him to recreate the intense drama and tension surrounding the ADA's journey to becoming law. This is not a dry, impersonal account of bills and speeches, but a gripping tale filled with extraordinary characters and pivotal moments. Witness powerful scenes such as the iconic "Capitol Crawl" and the passionate demand for a "Deaf President Now!" at Gallaudet University. Meet the dedicated individuals who fought relentlessly, including unsung heroes, political heavyweights, and tireless disability advocates.

Feel the intensity as Ted Kennedy passionately shouts, "You want to fight?" during negotiations for the final details of the ADA. Experience the journey of Congressman Tony Coelho, who overcame his own personal struggles with epilepsy to become the bill's primary sponsor. Encounter Justin Dart, a true force of nature, as he travels across all 50 states to spread the message of disability rights. These are just a few of the remarkable characters brought to life in "Enabling Acts".

Don't miss out on this captivating and empowering book that reveals the hidden story behind the Americans with Disabilities Act. Join the ranks of those who seek knowledge, understanding, and the celebration of triumph over adversity. Embrace the legacy of those who fought for equal rights in the marble halls of DC. Take the first step towards enlightenment and order your copy of "Enabling Acts" today!

Click here to get your copy of "Enabling Acts: The Hidden Story of How the Americans with Disabilities Act Gave the Largest US Minority Its Rights" now!

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