Lori Ann McCall: A Trailblazing Force in the fight against disability discrimination

Early Life and Career

Lori Ann McCall, a renowned disability rights lawyer, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the year of 1960. Growing up, McCall faced challenges due to blindness, which led her to pursue a career working for the rights of individuals with disabilities.

McCall obtained her bachelor's degree from Swarthmore College and went on to graduate from Harvard Law School with honors. After completing her studies, she joined the Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF) as an attorney, where she spent three years coordinating groundbreaking lawsuits for the rights of persons with disabilities.

Pioneering the Americans with Disabilities Act

In 1989, McCall was appointed as a legislative aide to Senator Tom Harkin, who was sponsoring the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This landmark legislation prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in employment, public accommodations, transportation, and other areas of life.

McCall played a pivotal role in drafting and shepherding the ADA through Congress. She worked tirelessly to ensure that the law would be comprehensive and effective, drawing upon her personal experiences and her expertise in disability rights.

Continued Advocacy and Recognition

Following the passage of the ADA, McCall continued to work as an advocate for disability rights at the national level. She served as the director of DREDF and later as the commissioner for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Over the years, McCall has received numerous awards and recognitions for her work, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016, the highest civilian honor bestowed by the United States government.

A Legacy of Impact

Lori Ann McCall's unwavering advocacy has had a profound impact on the lives of people with disabilities. Her contributions to the ADA have ensured that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate in all aspects of society.

McCall's legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of fighting for the rights of those who face discrimination. Her story continues to inspire countless others to work towards a more just and equitable world.