In 1967, the Massachusetts legislature passed an act to " make public buildings accessible to, functional for, and safer for use of physically handicapped persons." The Federal government also passed Federal anti-discrimination laws, the so called "civil rights for people with disabilities."

Virtually everyone experiences disability at some point in his/her life. Within the life cycle of every person experiences both the development and loss of abilities. In a sense, children are disabled until they grow big enough to fit into the adult world and can reach stair railings, turn on lights and open doors. Abilities also decline with age. Traditionally, this has resulted in diminished independence and range of activities. Finally a relatively insignificant temporary disability such as a broken leg can take over a year to heal.

Making sure our physical environment is accessible to people of all abilities is a challenge. It requires a positive mental image of those who use our public buildings and constant awareness of the dynamic needs of full access.