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Brown v. Board of Education
This well recognized civil rights law addressed racial inequality and segregation within the school system of Topeka Kansas. It resulted in the court's ruling that states, " the plaintiffs were being deprived of the equal protection of the laws guaranteed by the 14th Amendment," (History, 2022; para.12). Although, it did not solely end educational segregation alone, it opened doors for may others including parents of children with disabilities and disability rights activists. -
Mills v. Board of Education of the District of Columbia
Many parents of children with disabilities believed their children had rights to receive a free quality education. According to Forte (2017), "the court held that no child may be denied a public education because of mental, behavioral, physical, or emotional handicaps or deficiencies," (para.19). This law along with many others led to the idea of free appropriate public education. -
Timothy W. v. Rochester, New Hampshire, School District
This case was based on Timothy W., a young man that diagnosed with multiple disabilities. He was denied the opportunity to receive special education services by the district court. They believed the severity of his disabilities would hinder his ability to learn. The First Circuit Court of Appeals argued that this decision went against the EAHCA of 1975 and emphasized the zero reject act. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
The reauthorized law of the Education for All Handicapped Children's Act of 1975. It protects children ages 3-21 with exceptionalities the rights to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE) based on the child's unique needs. IDEA also provides procedural safeguards for parents and legal guardians, which grants and protects their rights. -
Americans with Disabilities Act
This civil rights law was signed by George H.W. Bush. It prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various areas such the workplace and other establishments that serve the public. It wants to ensure these individuals receive the same opportunities as everyone else. For individuals to receive protection under ADA, they must meet the requirements provided under the law.