New Yorkers gathered in Coney Island on Wednesday to commemorate the 33rd anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act.  

For Khalia Hayslett, Miss Wheelchair New York, life may have looked a lot different if it weren’t for the accessibility and opportunities presented to her thanks to the ADA. The act has spread disability awareness to organizations and agencies across the country to provide more infrastructure to those with physical disabilities.  

“It validates that we have value in our society and that we are productive members of society,” said Hayslett.  

President George H.W. Bush passed the bill in 1990. It has helped those with walkers, wheelchairs, and even those with hidden disabilities access things like the Coney Island Boardwalk and Beach for a beautiful day.