104 STAT. 5376 PROCLAMATION 6176—SEPT. 11, 1990 bling Americans with physical, mental, and emotional impairments to gain greater independence and self-confidence. On July 26, 1990, it was my privilege to sign into law the world's first comprehensive declaration of equality for persons with disabilities— the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Expanding upon the goals of the Rehabihtation Act of 1973, this landmark legislation will ensure continued progress in efforts to help Americans with disabilities to live with greater freedom and independence. The Americans with Disabilities Act guarantees individuals with disabilities protection against discrimination; access to public accommodations, such as offices, hotels, and shopping centers; and improved access to transportation and telecommunications services. All Americans have reason to celebrate our Nation's progress in eliminating the physical and attitudinal barriers that have, in the past, prevented many persons with disabilities from entering the mainstream of American life. Rehabilitation services and related research and education programs have played an important role in this progress, and, this week, we salute all those dedicated and hardworking men and women who have devoted their energy and skills to this important work. In recognition of the many achievements of Americans with disabilities and in honor of all those who provide rehabilitative services for persons with disabilities, the Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 279, has designated the week of September 16 through September 22, 1990, as "National Rehabilitation Week" and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this week. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the week of September 16 through September 22, 1990, as National Rehabilitation Week. I urge all Americans to observe this week with appropriate ceremonies and activities, including educational programs designed to heighten awareness of rehabilitative services and of the ways such services enrich the lives of persons with disabilities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eleventh day of September, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fifteenth. GEORGE BUSH Editorial note: For the President's remarks of July 26, 1990 on signing the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, see the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents (vol. 28, p. 1165).
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