The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is one of the most significant civil rights laws in American history. Signed by President George H.W. Bush on July 26, 1990, the ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities across all major areas of public life. As the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games approach, the ADA's legacy is more relevant than ever.
Core Provisions of the ADA
The ADA is organized into five main titles. Title I prohibits employment discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities and requires employers with 15 or more employees to provide reasonable accommodations. Title II requires state and local governments to make their services, programs, and activities accessible to people with disabilities. Title III extends these requirements to private businesses and places of public accommodation, including sports stadiums, hotels, restaurants, and transportation providers. Titles IV and V address telecommunications and miscellaneous provisions respectively.
The ADA and Sports Venues
For the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics, Title II and Title III of the ADA are particularly important. All 49 competition venues must meet ADA standards for physical accessibility, including accessible entrances, seating areas, restrooms, concessions, and parking. The LA28 organizing committee and the City of Los Angeles are working together to conduct accessibility audits at each venue and implement any necessary upgrades before the Games begin in July 2028.
ADA's 35th Anniversary and LA28
The year 2025 marked the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a milestone that coincided with accelerating preparations for the 2028 Games. Mayor Karen Bass signed the Games Host City Accessibility Commitment in recognition of this anniversary, underscoring that ADA 2028 is a continuation and amplification of the ADA's original promise. The International Paralympic Committee noted that the LA28 Games have the potential to advance ADA goals beyond sport into every corner of public life.
Enforcement and Accountability
ADA compliance at the 2028 Games will be overseen by the city's first-ever Accessibility Chief, housed within the Office of Major Events. The Games Accessibility Plan will set specific, measurable targets for venue accessibility, transportation, communications, and services for visitors and athletes with disabilities. Independent audits and disability community input will help ensure that the commitments made under the ADA 2028 framework are fully realized.