H. Res. 1355, Support Disability Pride Day

H. RES. 1355, SUPPORT DISABILITY PRIDE DAY -- (Extensions of Remarks - August 01, 2008)

SPEECH OF
HON. BETTY McCOLLUM
OF MINNESOTA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
FRIDAY, AUGUST 1, 2008

* Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 1355, a resolution to support the goals and ideals of Disability Pride Day.

* Over 18 years ago Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act into law to end discrimination against and provide equal opportunities for people living with disabilities. It was a historic and proud day for the United States. The significant contributions to American life, our economy and every aspect of our society by people with disabilities deserve to be recognized and honored. While great strides have been made to ensure all rights for people living with disabilities are respected, we must always celebrate the victories and act with vigilance and determination to protect, defend and advance those rights.

* This resolution expresses support for Disability Pride Day, and acknowledges the efforts of Chicago's 5th Annual Disability Pride Parade organizers for raising awareness for the needs of those with disabilities. It also urges public officials and the general public to support and encourage understanding of persons with disabilities.

* We need to help support and encourage understanding of persons with disabilities in schools, the workforce, and in our communities. It is unacceptable that only one-third of Americans with disabilities are employed and people with disabilities are three times more likely to live in poverty. I believe all Americans should have the opportunity to achieve economic independence, which is why I support efforts to improve employment programs for individuals with disabilities. I also believe every child deserves a quality and affordable education, and we must ensure that our schools are adequately funded to promise a fair education for all children with disabilities. I support full funding the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, IDEA, which is why I introduced the Achieving Our IDEA Act, H.R. 1896. This bill will help ensure that the Federal Government contributes 40 percent to the cost of educating children with special needs.

* This year Congress also took action to ensure the rights of those with disabilities. The ADA Amendments Act, of which I was a cosponsor, passed the House with overwhelming support on June 25, 2008. This bill protects individuals from employment discrimination in the workplace for those who can and want to work, and restores the original intent of Congress. All Americans should be able to live and work in their communities without fear of being discriminated against.

* All people have the right to be active, contributing members of our society and fully engaged citizens. I will continue to support efforts to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

* I urge my colleagues to support this resolution and celebrate Disability Pride Day.

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