July 26, 2010
Chief Justice Brown Commemorates Americans With Disabilities Act Anniversary

On the 20^th anniversary of the signing of landmark legislation for citizens with disabilities, Supreme Court of Ohio Chief Justice Eric Brown today delivered keynote remarks reflecting on the significance of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

His speech was part of a statewide ADA anniversary celebration on the lawn of the Statehouse that honored the civil rights law that guarantees equal opportunities for individuals with a disability.

While noting that his temporary confinement to a wheelchair for three months after hip surgery didn’t compare to the experiences of some of the guests in the audience, he said it did provide perspective.

“My situation did not come close to what many of you confront on an ongoing basis,” Chief Justice Brown said. “But my experience gave me a deeper appreciation for the ADA ... and for ensuring that our courtrooms are accessible to all people, including those with disabilities.”

He applied his learning experience in assisting planners and architects in the design of the new Franklin County Courthouse to ensure that those in wheelchairs will be able to serve on juries, to serve as witnesses and to observe trials.

Signed into law on July 26, 1990, by President George H. W. Bush, the ADA affords similar protections against discrimination to Americans with disabilities as the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Local ADA anniversary events were held in cities statewide, including Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dayton, Euclid, Toledo and Youngstown.

Brown was sworn in May 3 as the ninth Chief Justice and 152^nd Justice of the Supreme Court of Ohio. Access additional biographical information.

For a high-resolution, print-quality photo of Chief Justice Brown, visit: http://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/PIO/news/images/justices/brown_highres.zip.

Contact: Joe Smith at 614.387.9017.