I have already said that I think we should all be contacting our representatives regarding HR 40, the bill for studying the creation of structure to provide reparations for the descendants of enslaved people.
One of the amazing things that happen this last week is that I received the author copies of our book. Seeking to Understand: A Journey into Disability Studies and Libraries will be published on March 15.
I am preparing to present on March 18th. So I started to reread parts of it. What I want to focus on right now is the tremendous opportunity to get the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities ratified.
Guiding Principles of the Convention
There are eight guiding principles that underlie the Convention and each one of its specific articles:
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Respect for inherent dignity, individual autonomy including the freedom to make one’s own choices, and independence of persons
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Non-discrimination
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Full and effective participation and inclusion in society
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Respect for difference and acceptance of persons with disabilities as part of human diversity and humanity
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Equality of opportunity
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Accessibility
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Equality between men and women
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Respect for the evolving capacities of children with disabilities and respect for the right of children with disabilities to preserve their identities
Please, this is an opportunity to join in something that has already be ratified by 182 countries. Now is the time. Please ask your Senator to sponsor putting this treaty forward for ratification.