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Source: U.S State of Department
"On December 3 International Day of Persons with Disabilities,?the United States?remains steadfast in our commitment and resolve to?advance?the human rights of persons with disabilities?at home and?around the world.? We urge foreign governments to engage persons with disabilities in the democratic process, to combat discrimination?and abuse,?counter?prejudice, and to protect?their rights and?ensure their?inclusion?in all facets of life?on an equal basis with other?people. Around the world, policies related to elections and civic engagement are not fully inclusive?for persons with disabilities.? Given the more than one billion persons?living?with disabilities globally, this?widespread inaccessibility?is an enormous and untenable disenfranchisement.? This Administration recognizes the values, talents, and contributions?that?persons with disabilities bring to the global community.? That is why President Biden appointed Sara?Minkara?to serve as U.S. Special Advisor on International Disability Rights – a role critical to ensuring disability-inclusive U.S. diplomacy and foreign assistance.? Our?colleagues?around the world?with disabilities – Civil?and?Foreign Service, contractors,?eligible family members,?and?locally employed staff – make us stronger.??They bring creativity to?our efforts to resolve?entrenched problems?and draw?on?their lived experiences?to?inform and strengthen our policies to promote?accessibility and inclusion.
The United States strives to be a model for diversity, equity, inclusion,?and accessibility,?to reflect one of our most fundamental values as a nation:? That?everyone is treated with dignity and respect.? At the State Department,?we?endeavor?to uphold these values every?day, ensuring that our?colleagues?with disabilities thrive in the workplace.??As part of the Summit for Democracy?and in celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we?demonstrate?this approach by convening leaders from all sectors of society?and?representing democracies around the world?to identify innovative approaches and actions that promote disability-inclusive democracy.??We know the best, most durable, and lasting solutions arise when governments embrace, respect, and integrate diverse perspectives from all communities, including persons with disabilities." Source: Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State, Stae.gov
