Joanne R. Pompano
Americans with disabilities are the largest single minority in the country. However, they are still an unrecognized minority who have not demanded their full rights or exercised their political influence. In spite of this, the disability rights movement has made great progress in bringing the needs, concerns and rights of people with disabilities to national attention.
In fact, the disability rights movement has transformed society in America. For the first time, individuals with even the most severe disabilities were guaranteed rights and the opportunity to make their own decisions. There are now more choices in education, training and employment and more opportunities for individuals to live, work, and enjoy their communities.