From Rolling Stone · Rolling Stone · · 1m
Pva's 80-Year Fight for Disability Access
Pva has shaped national accessibility for 80 years, pushing for disability rights through law, science, and community.
In brief
Pva has shaped national accessibility for 80 years, pushing for disability rights through law, science, and community. Pva has advanced disability access through 80 years of advocacy, legal wins, and scientific research. Originally reported by Rolling Stone.
Pva's founding
Pva started in 1946 to help veterans with spinal cord injuries rebuild lives.
Pva's mission
Pva fights for civil rights and well-being of disabled people, military or not.
Pva's expertise

Pva's chief operating officer says they know true accessibility from lived experience.
“Pva has lived this for over 80 years. We know what true accessibility looks like because we experience it every single day of our lives.”
Architectural barriers act
Pva pushed for wheelchair access in all federal buildings in 1968.
Transportation wins
Pva won legal battles to make dc metro fully accessible for wheelchair users.
Pva's research impact
Pva's research grants led to a breakthrough als drug and non-addictive pain medication.
Pva's broader reach
Pva works for all disabled people, not just veterans, improving lives across communities.
“While our focus is on ensuring our members' independence is maximized and that they have full access to their communities, our advocacy improves the lives of all people with disabilities, to include older Americans.”
Current fights
Pva pushes for accessible air travel and healthcare for disabled veterans.
The one thing
Pva has advanced disability access through 80 years of advocacy, legal wins, and scientific research.





