Yesterday, renowned actress and activist Selma Blair joined President Joe Biden in commemorating the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the 50th anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre highlighted Biden's instrumental role in the passage of both acts during his tenure in the Senate, emphasizing his unwavering belief that every American, particularly those with disabilities, deserves dignity and respect from the federal government.
During her appearance on the South Lawn, Blair proudly identified herself as a disabled woman and applauded the White House for its ongoing commitment to safeguarding the rights of disabled Americans. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that laws and policies reflect the understanding that disabled lives hold equal value and should not be marginalized.
For the occasion, Blair donned an exquisite white skirt suit adorned with sparkling crystal embellishments. Her signature walking stick, now recognized as a symbol of her journey, was elegantly displayed in a fully transparent design. Accompanying her was her service dog, Scout, who reportedly took a brief nap at President Biden's feet while Blair addressed the attendees. Blair has been living with multiple sclerosis since her diagnosis in 2018.
President Biden also took the opportunity to commemorate the historic legislation, acknowledging the Americans With Disabilities Act as a bipartisan bill signed into law by former Republican President George H.W. Bush 33 years ago on the very spot they stood on the South Lawn of the White House.
He further emphasized that the ADA represented progress that transcended politics, positively impacting millions of disabled American veterans and families. Addressing the audience, President Biden underscored the significance of these laws for over 61 million Americans living with disabilities, emphasizing that they provide opportunities for meaningful inclusion, participation, respect, and, above all, dignity — a value his father always stressed, treating every individual with dignity.
The landmark bill, signed in 1990, prohibits discrimination based on disability and mandates that employers and public facilities offer reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, ensuring equal access and opportunities for all.