Disability & Accessibility

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and relevant local, state, and federal laws, the University provides individuals with disabilities equal access to programs, services, and activities.

If you or someone you know may have experienced discrimination or harassment based on a disability, the University offers support and resources. You are encouraged to make a Civil Rights & Title IX Report to connect with a Civil Rights Case Manager. Case managers will:

• Listen to your concerns.
• Help you navigate the situation.
• Coordinate supportive measures.
• Provide information on resolution options.
• Offer referrals to additional resources, both on and off campus.

What is the Americans with Disabilities Act?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 is a broad civil rights law designed to protect people from discrimination based on disability. The ADA extends civil rights protection for people with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, school, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public. At the University of Washington, the ADA ensures that people with disabilities are entitled to equal access to all University programs, services, and activities.

What is Section 504?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 was the first civil rights protection in the United States to prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities in programs and activities that receive federal funding.

“No otherwise qualified individual with a disability in the United States… shall, solely by reason of his or her disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance…”

Section 504 regulations apply to all recipients of federal funding, including higher education institutions such as the University of Washington.