Celebrating 35 years of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) of 1990: A transit equity milestone
The 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) memorializes progress made in ensuring equal access to public spaces, workplaces and transportation systems for people with disabilities. Signed into law on July 26, 1990, the ADA changed the landscape for individuals with disabilities across the United States, and its impact continues to shape the inclusivity and accessibility of public services today.
RTD honors the legacy of those who advocated for the rights and independence of individuals with disabilities. The agency’s commitment to transit equity and accessibility is demonstrated not only in the infrastructure improvements over the years but also in the daily experiences of RTD’s customers. The ADA has empowered millions to travel freely and independently, strengthening the fabric of the metro area community. To commemorate this anniversary, RTD recognizes the stories of those who have directly benefited from and contributed to the ADA’s legacy.
Transit equity in action: The Gang of 19 and RTD
One of the earliest and most influential moments in the fight for accessible transportation in Denver was the advocacy of the Gang of 19, a group of disability rights activists who fought for accessible, reliable public transportation. Their efforts created a foundation for many of the accessibility features that RTD employs today, including wheelchair-accessible buses and light rail stations, priority seating and customer service standards that fosters dignity and respect for every customer.
The Gang of 19’s work helped establish key values of the ADA — equality, independence and inclusion. Their advocacy, along with RTD’s ongoing accessibility efforts, has empowered individuals with disabilities to travel independently, access employment opportunities and participate in the community in ways that were once unimaginable.
Customer Spotlight: Myles King’s journey with RTD
Myles King, a Denver native, has been an RTD customer for more than 21 years. A proud participant in the evolution of RTD's accessible transit system, King’s journey as a person living with autism is a testament to how the ADA has transformed lives. From his early experiences taking the 16th Street Free Ride shuttle to navigating buses and light rails throughout the city, Myles exemplifies the empowerment that comes with accessible public transportation.
"I remember the time when I was a kid," King recalls. "I rode on the 16th Street Mall free shuttle and felt like I could go anywhere across the city. Over the years, I’ve learned new routes, and when the light rail came, I discovered even more places to explore."
Now a professional blackjack dealer, King uses RTD’s services for commuting to gigs and events across Denver. King’s experience shows how accessible transit enables people with intellectual disabilities to live more independently and how the ADA allows people of all abilities to pursue work, interests and everyday activities.
"It’s great to know that RTD can help me get to places I’ve never been before," King shares. "And it’s more than just about getting there—it’s about living life to the fullest and knowing that I am included."
King reflects on the significance of his 35th birthday and the 35th anniversary of the ADA. "To the people at RTD, thank you for helping people like me get to our destinations safely and with dignity. The ADA has helped inspire so many of us to dream bigger and go further."
Check out King’s full story.
Operator Spotlight: Ike Veiga’s commitment to compassionate service
Ike Veiga, a bus operator and trainer with 13 years experience, helps ensure RTD’s services are accessible and welcoming to all riders. Ike’s dedication to providing excellent customer service is a direct reflection of RTD’s ongoing commitment to transit equity and inclusion.
Veiga recalls a moment that underscored the importance of empathy and understanding in public transit: "I was on my way home after my shift and got on the bus to head back to my car. As we pulled into a stop, I noticed a passenger in a mobility device. I greeted them with a simple ‘Good afternoon’ and asked if they would like me to secure their mobility device. The customer thanked me, sharing that the previous driver had made them feel like a burden because they didn’t take the time to properly assist."
Veiga says even small interactions can show customers they are valued. "It’s about making sure that every passenger feels valued, regardless of their ability. I believe the most important quality for any bus operator is patience and compassion. People with disabilities deserve the same respect as anyone else, and it’s our job to ensure that they feel safe, comfortable, and empowered on every ride."
As a trainer, Veiga teaches new RTD operators both the technical skills to drive a bus and the people skills to assist customers in a thoughtful, supportive manner.
Check out Ike’s full story.
Commemoration: 35 Years of Progress - ADA Past, Present, and Future
In commemoration of this significant anniversary, RTD, in partnership with Atlantis Community, is hosting an event, "35 Years of Progress: ADA Past, Present, and Future," to celebrate the journey of the ADA and its continued influence. This event will take place on Aug. 1, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the Homewood Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown-Convention Center. The event will feature a range of activities, including panel discussions, workshops and a resource fair, highlighting the milestones of the ADA and showcasing the ongoing efforts to create a more accessible and inclusive society.
Community Partners at 35 Years of Progress: ADA Past, Present, and Future
RTD is proud to collaborate with the following community partners for “35 Years of Progress: ADA Past, Present, and Future,” whose efforts support the accessibility and inclusion goals of the ADA. This is not an exhaustive list of RTD partners and community support, and many other organizations contribute to this important mission:
1. Atlantis Community: A Colorado-based nonprofit that provides advocacy and services to individuals with disabilities, Atlantis focuses on enhancing the lives of people with disabilities through independent living programs and community-based support.
2. Canine Partners of the Rockies: This nonprofit organization trains and places service dogs with individuals with disabilities, providing independence, safety and companionship.
3. Center for People with Disabilities: A nonprofit agency that offers advocacy, community engagement and resources to support individuals with disabilities in achieving full participation in society.
4. Colorado Neurodiversity Chamber of Commerce: This organization fosters the economic empowerment of individuals with neurodiverse conditions by advocating for inclusive hiring practices and business development.
5. Denver Human Rights and Community Partners Disability Rights Office: This office works to protect and promote the rights of individuals with disabilities, ensuring that policies, programs and services are accessible and equitable.
6. Metropolitan State University Denver Disability Support Services: This department provides accommodation and services to students with disabilities, ensuring equal access to educational opportunities and resources.
7. Phamaly Theatre Company: A theater company that employs actors with disabilities, Phamaly is committed to providing artistic opportunities and promoting the representation of people with disabilities in the arts.
8. Rocky Mountain ADA Center: This center offers training, resources and technical assistance on the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure compliance and promote accessibility in both public and private sectors.
ADA Events Across the Denver Metro Area
In homage to the 35th Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities, RTD encourages all employees and community members to participate in events that align with and support the accessibility movement.
• 35th Anniversary ADA Celebration & Resource Fair: Denver International Airport (DEN) is holding a celebration on the Plaza between Jeppesen Terminal and the Westin. This event will feature airport and community partners sharing accessibility resources and support services, along with games and interactive activities on July 23 from 10 a.m. to noon.
• Untitled: Artist Takeover: WheelChair Camp will host a quarterly event at the Denver Art Museum on July 25 at 6 p.m. It will have a theme of "A Real Spectacle: Fit in with the Freaks," celebrating "Crip-culture" and is inspired by the museum's modern and contemporary art collection.
• Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition (CCDC): CCDC is hosting its 35th Annual ADA Awards on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. The event will celebrate 35 years of advocacy, inclusion and impact related to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The evening will include a cocktail hour, an awards ceremony, dinner and exclusive access to the museum.
• Disability Pride Celebration: The Clyfford Still Museum is holding a free Disability Pride Celebration on July 27 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. It features hands-on activities, American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters and information tables from community partners like Canine Partners of the Rockies.
The 35th anniversary of the ADA is a time to celebrate progress in the pursuit of accessibility and inclusivity in public transportation and RTD is proud to be a part of this ongoing journey. Myles King and Ike Vega’s stories are two of many that highlight the transformative power of accessible transit. Together, with the continued efforts of our riders, operators and community advocates, the agency will continue to work toward a future where transportation is equitable and encompassing for all.