I want YOU to fight for disabilities.
Last night I read a newsletter from the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) regarding the Convention of the Rights of People with Disabilities (CRPD).The CRPD basically ensures equal rights for people who live with disabilities and provides guidance to countries on their obligations to those with disabilities. The convention was signed in 2009, and has since been ratified by 115 countries. Can you guess which country has NOT ratified it? That’s right, the good ol’ U.S. of A. Surprise, Surprise.
DISCLAIMER: I served the military for 12 years. I love this country. I’m not an Anti-American, flag-burning extremist. HOWEVER, I don’t love this country with blind faith. It’s still run by people, and people don’t always make awesome decisions.
Today, at 9am, in Washington, D.C., a senate hearing will be held in which Americans can voice their support for the CRPD and speak with key players in the convention. If I had received this newsletter sooner, I would have made plans to attend. I don’t blame AAPD though, as I’m sure this information was available through other means that I missed out on due to something important such as Beverly Hills Nannies. I know I said get involved, but after being in college classes till 10pm, sometimes I don’t want to do anything that will further engage my brain. I’ll try to do better.
Obviously, if you are just now learning about the hearing, you’ll be unable to attend, unless you live in D.C. and have no other plans today. I’m assuming that’s not likely. In any case though, I would encourage my readers to attend events such as this one, and to lobby their senators and congressmen for equal rights for people with disabilities. I now have every intention of staying on top of what our politicians are doing, and voicing my opinion on it. I hope that I am not the only one who will be getting involved, as it will take more than just myself to make a difference.
Think about all the facilities you haven’t been able to bring your child into. Think about all the times you’ve been able to bring your child into a facility, but with more effort than should have been required. Remember all the times you’ve fought with your child’s school to get the education he or she needed, disabilities notwithstanding. These are things that can, and should be changed, but it will take time, determination and patience.