To mark the 35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Tennessee Disability Coalition created the ADA in Tennessee Oral History project, featuring powerful stories from Tennesseans whose lives are shaped by this historic landmark law. This series highlights the real-life experiences of Tennesseans across the state, the impact of the ADA, and the ongoing fight for equity and inclusion.
Episodes
Episode 1
Introduction to the ADA in Tennessee Oral History Project
In this powerful joint introduction, longtime disability rights advocates Carol Westlake and Donna DeStefano reflect on 35 years of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and share the importance of preserving personal stories to help guide our future. “We’re capturing a moment in time to honor the struggle, the progress, and the people behind it all.”
From Policy to People: Stephanie Cook’s Story
After a life-changing injury as a teen, Stephanie Cook turned challenge into purpose, becoming Knoxville’s longtime Disability Services Coordinator. In this ADA in Tennessee Oral History episode, Stephanie reflects on the power of the ADA, accessible design, and the ongoing fight for inclusion. “Don’t be afraid to speak up. If we, advocates, were afraid to speak up historically, we wouldn’t have the rights and the laws that we do today. So, advocacy cannot stop. Education must be non-stop, and we’ve just got to keep moving forward.”