Jim Sensenbrenner: “First, congratulations on setting history today by presiding over the House of Representatives. I promise you that there…”

“First, congratulations on setting history today by presiding over the House of Representatives. I promise you that there will be no points of order from the Republican side while you're in the chair. I also rise to support House Resolution 1504, which celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. It is important to acknowledge the achievements the disability community and its allies have accomplished in the past two decades. This anniversary represents another positive step taken in ensuring that all Americans are included in our communities and places of work. It has been a long road to guarantee that our fellow Americans find equal protection under the law. Upon the signing of the ADA, President George H.W. Bush said, ``Let the shameful wall of exclusion finally come tumbling down.'' Through bipartisan efforts, the societal barriers that for far too long kept disabled Americans from fully participating in our communities did indeed crumble with the passing of one of the most effective civil rights laws ever. Because of this monumental piece of legislation, our country has been able to capitalize on the talents of millions of Americans with disabilities in the workplace. The ADA has protected the rights of children and students who once encountered educational discrimination and barriers. The accessibility of buildings, public transportation, and sidewalks has made our society more inclusive.…”