Blog: The Duckworth Diary July 26, 2013

Statement

Dear Neighbors,

This was a busy week in Washington as Congress' August recess is fast approaching. I look forward to spending quality time in our District and hope to see you at an upcoming Congress at Your Corner or roundtable event.

On Tuesday, I met with Northern Illinois University President Doug Baker and his staff. I greatly enjoyed meeting President Baker and discussing the use of engineering technology and particle proton therapy to treat tumors. In addition, we talked about the importance of ensuring that student loans are affordable.

Later that day, I attended a meeting at the White House where I met with President Obama and other leaders, including members of the Congressional Asian Pacific America Caucus (CAPAC), to discuss issues of importance to the Asian American Community, including immigration reform. I am proud to be a voice for the community.

On Wednesday I gave the keynote address at the National Council on Independent Living's Annual Conference. I spoke about the importance of energizing the new generation of advocates to continue advancing the rights of those living with disabilities. I also participated in a press conference calling on the Senate to pass the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The CRPD will greatly expand opportunities for people with disabilities, not only here in the United States but across the world.

I also met with members from the National Alliance to End Homelessness. We talked about how the sequester is negatively impacting access to critical services that combat homelessness in Illinois. Ending homelessness is a cause that is very close to my heart.

Today, I am back in the 8th District visiting Local 17, L3 Communications -- Electrodynamics and the Gas Technology Institute. I am excited to learn more about each of these organizations and how they are serving the residents of our District.

I hope you had an enjoyable week.

Sincerely,

Congresswoman Duckworth

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