Americans with Disabilities Act 25th Anniversary Timeline - Disability & Employment

President’s Panel on Mental Retardation

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1961

President John F. Kennedy creates the President’s Panel on Mental Retardation and calls upon America to address the significant needs of people with intellectual disabilities and their desire to be a part of everyday life in America.  Future administrations continue the effort, expanding its goals to include training in academic, vocational and social skills to enable children with intellectual disabilities to reach their potential.  In 2003, President George W. Bush renames the committee the “President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities.” 

A 1961 photo showing JFK visiting at the White House with members of the President's Panel on Mental Retardation. — John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum