02: Infrastructure, Inclusivity and the ADA

Lex Frieden, MA, LLD, is a professor of biomedical informatics at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, and also directs the Independent Living Research Utilization program at TIRR Memorial Hermann. Best known for his contributions to the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, Frieden suffered a spinal cord injury while in college and has used a wheelchair for more than 40 years. Frieden also received the 2017 Fries Prize for Improving Health for being an architect of the ADA and a catalyst in the worldwide disability rights and independent living movements. In this episode Lex shares his personal story, his passion for independent living by people with disabilities and his memories about working closely with former president George H. W. Bush. For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations). Key Takeaways: [1:16] Lex's life story and how he became a champion for people living with disabilities. [4:45] Finding out other people with disabilities were also affected in his community. [5:08] Building the Americans with Disabilities Act. [9:33] Lex's connection to former U.S. President George H.W. Bush [11:45] Challenges that existed for people with disabilities before 1988. [14:15] Despite the progress made by the ADA, there is still a ways to go. [17:16] How the ADA is changing the paradigm about disabilities. [20:03] We need inclusive planning in the workplace, the community and the world. [20:25] The role of public/private partnerships in improving the lives of people living with disabilities. [21:40] Empowering individuals to get engaged is important. [22:37] Today's challenges for Americans with disabilities. [23:30] Aging people naturally acquire disabilities. [25:08] Advice for people living with disabilities and to the ones around them. Mentioned in This Episode: CDC Foundation Answer this episode's question: Do you have a story to share about how the ADA has benefited you or someone you know? Email your answer to [email protected] to win some Contagious Conversations merchandise.