05/15/2026
May is Celiac Awareness Month, and this is your reminder that celiac disease is recognized as a disability in the U.S. under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
When we've posted about this in the past, we have seen a wide range of reactions within our community. Some feel validated due to how disruptive celiac disease is, and recognize the importance of legal protections in environments like school. Other folks don’t personally feel “disabled enough” for this label and to be honest, conversations around identity and disability can be deeply personal and complicated. But regardless of how someone identifies, this legal recognition exists to provide important protections in a variety of settings.
Because celiac disease is an impairment that affects the major life activity of eating, as well as major bodily functions including the digestive, immune, and neurological systems, the ADA may require reasonable accommodations in many situations. This recognition helps protect access, safety, and inclusion throughout different stages of life.
Knowing your rights can help you advocate for the accommodations you or your loved one may need. We have a few webinars with attorneys who specialize in disability discrimination; you can reach out to us for links or find them on our YouTube or at nationalceliac.org/nca-webinars/
