The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1990. Over time, the act has become more inclusive. ADA prohibits disability discrimination and makes access obtainable for all. Churches are exempt from ADA, however, there’s a Christian mandate to be inclusive to all of God’s children.
ADA compliance is not transactional. To be an ADA-compliant church, it requires a shift in thinking to make decision-making, problem solving, and corporate behavior inclusive practices. ADA compliance isn’t one-time, seasonal, or ad hoc. ADA compliance is a continuous life practice.
1 Corinthians 12:22–26 Every child of God is essential to the KingdomBecoming an ADA-compliant church isn’t limited to physical building updates. It’s including disability education in sermons to remove stigma. It’s learning from members’ who have disabilities, then tailoring communications and materials to be inclusive. It’s proactively allocating financial resources to support members with disabilities (e.g. sensory rooms, leadership training). ADA compliance and advocacy are multi-dimensional.
John 9:1–3 Having a disability is not a sin, or punishment
Matthew 25:40 A disability should be why we keep a watchful eye for one anotherProperly serving individuals with disabilities requires third-party professional partnerships. Churches can partner with organizations through the regional ADA Network, universities and colleges, and local organizations.
Check out the Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation at Georgia Tech who offer no cost ADA support.
Inclusivity isn’t trendy, or political. Inclusivity is humanity. To be a church for all of God’s children means incorporating meaningful practices for individuals with disabilities to be a part of ministry, and not apart from ministry.
Jesus advocated for and healed people with disabilities:
Matthew 9:1–8
John 5:1–9
Matthew 15:30–31
John 9:1–12
Mark 10:46–52
Matthew 9:27–31
Mark 7:31–37
Matthew 9:32–33
Mark 3:1-6