The mission of the ADA and Section 503 is to help employers build more equitable, inclusive organizations that value the contributions of individuals with disabilities.The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed 33 years ago to protect individuals with disabilities against discrimination in their public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places. Government contractors are obligated to adhere to both the ADA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Section 503 prohibits federal contractors from discriminating against individuals with disabilities and requires affirmative action programs to recruit, hire, promote and retain individuals covered by the act.