Thornburgh Family Lecture 2009: Tom Harkin
Presented by: Tom Harkin
Senator Tom Harkin has led the fight to ensure equality amongst the millions of Americans with disabilities since first being elected to the U.S. Congress in 1974 and later to the U.S. Senate in 1984. Harkin considers the Americans with Disabilites Act (ADA) of 1990 his signature legislative achievement. Known as the "Emancipation Proclamation for people with disabilities," this landmark law protects the civil rights of millions of Americans with physical and mental disabilities. The law has literally changed the landscape of America by requiring accessible buildings and transportation and workplace accommodations for people with disabilities.
Message from the Governor
The Forum was established at the late Dick Thornburgh’s Law School alma mater, the University of Pittsburgh. In connection with the Dick Thornburgh Papers held by the University's Hillman Library, the Forum reflects his experiences in public life. It is in intended to foster discourse on issues vital to the preservation of our democratic system and the Rule of Law upon which that system depends.
Special thanks are due to Chancellor Emeritus Mark Nordenberg who serves as the Director of the Dick Thornburgh Forum and has been unstinting in support of this effort since its inception. In addition, many others have provided time, resources and dedication to this undertaking.