The United Nations made a resolution making 1981 the International Year of the Disabled. This was important to have the world accept the needs of those with handicaps. They encouraged all nations to help the disabled. The theme of this year was “full participation and equality” meaning that persons with disabilities had the right to take part fully in society just as other citizens. Other objectives included public awareness, understanding, and acceptance.
Many people advocated for the rights of people with disabilities.
In 1975, Congress passed the “Education for All Handicapped Children Act (Public Law 94-142).” This law protected the rights of children with disabilities and their families. In 1990, when the law was reauthorized, the name was changed to “Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).” This law was last authorized in 2004.
Before 1975, many children were denied access to education. Only one in five children with disabilities was educated. Many states actually had laws that excluded children with disabilities. There were nearly 1.8 million children being denied an education at this time. In 2021, there were 7.5 million children with disabilities receiving special education and related services.
Classroom Activities:
- Write a letter to Congress stating why this law is important.
- What rights does IDEA give children with disabilities and their parents?
- How were children with disabilities educated before 1975?
- Pretend you are a parent of a child with a disability before 1975 and write a letter to a school explaining why allowing you in the school is important.
- Design your own stamp with this theme and share it with the class.
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