YMCA Of Middle Tennessee Settles Complaint Alleging Violation Of The Americans With Disabilities Act

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – February 19, 2020 – The YMCA of Middle Tennessee has agreed to adopt a written non-discrimination statement and institute policies to resolve Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) allegations, announced Don Cochran, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee. The policies will provide a system by which children with disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), are afforded program modifications and/or auxiliary aids that will enable them to participate in YMCA’s after school programs.

The settlement resolves allegations made by the father of a child with ASD who was denied participation in the YMCA’s after school program on the basis of the child’s disability-related behavior. The complainant alleged that the YMCA failed to secure an aid for the child and asked the child not to participate in the program. As part of the settlement, YMCA has adopted a non-discrimination statement and specific written policies that require reasonable modifications, including hiring auxiliary aids if necessary, in order to provide its childcare services to children with disabilities. A designated individual from the organization will be responsible for ensuring compliance with the new policies.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Dean S. Atyia handled this matter on behalf of the United States.

2020 marks the 30^th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Justice Department plays a central role in advancing the nation’s goal of equal opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for people with disabilities. The Justice Department will continue to use its enforcement and technical assistance tools to eliminate unlawful discrimination against individuals with disabilities. 

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