International Day of Persons with Disabilities
The annual observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3rd was established by the
International Year for Disabled Persons (1981). The Day aims to promote a better understanding of disability issues with a focus on the rights of persons with disabilities and gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of the political, social, economic and cultural life of their communities. The goal of full and effective participation of persons with disabilities in society and development was established by the World Programme of Action concerning Disabled Persons, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1982.
"Despite over one hundred and ninety distinct, diverse and defined nations in the world, it is a testimony to the commonality of the disability experience that these nations are unified in their recognition, celebration and observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities," stated Rick Rader, MD, Editor in Chief of Exceptional Parent Magazine. "Hopefully these nations can expand their horizons to observe the other commonly shared human needs like peace, freedom and harmonious co-existence."
For more information on this international day of celebration and recognition visit: http://www.un.org/disabilities.
Dec 3, 2010 - 11:05:03 AM
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Appointment of Special Advisor for International Disability Rights
The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor announced last week the appointment of Judith Heumann as the Special Advisor for International Disability Rights. Special Advisor Heumann will lead the Administration’s efforts to develop a comprehensive strategy to promote the rights of persons with disabilities internationally; coordinate an interagency process for the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; ensure that foreign assistance incorporates persons with disabilities; lead on disability human rights issues; ensure that the needs of persons with disabilities are addressed in international situations; and conduct public diplomacy, including with civil society, on disability issues.
Jul 7, 2010 - 7:17:43 PM
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World Down Syndrome Day!
Down Syndrome International (DSI) has officially earmarked March 21st as World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD). The date was chosen to signify the uniqueness of Down syndrome in the triplication (Trisomy) of the 21st chromosome and is used synonymously with Down syndrome. Commemoration of World Down Syndrome Day started on
March 21, 2006, it has "grown" manifold globally.
For more visit: www.worlddownsyndromeday.org.
Mar 21, 2010 - 8:51:08 AM
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Hanger Orthopedic Group to Donate $250,000 in Funding and Orthopedic Devices to Haiti Earthquake Relief Efforts
Hanger Orthopedic Group, Inc. (Hanger) and its philanthropic organization The Hanger Ivan R. Sabel Foundation announced today that it will provide $250,000 in funding and orthopedic devices to assist with the medical needs of those affected by the earthquake in Haiti.
Jan 22, 2010 - 2:03:39 AM
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President Obama Signs Proclamation in Support of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities
On December 2, 2009, President Obama proclaimed December 3, 2009, as International Day of Persons with Disabilities and called on all Americans to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
In the proclamation, President Obama stated: “Today, as we commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we celebrate the skills, achievements, and contributions of persons with disabilities in America and around the world.
We recognize the progress we have made toward equality for all, and we rededicate ourselves to ensuring individuals with disabilities can reach their greatest potential.”
Dec 3, 2009 - 12:55:41 PM
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EP Mourns the Loss of a Leader, Visionary, and Wonderful Human Being
A message from EP President and CEO, Joseph Valenzano
Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the Founder of Special Olympics, passed away early this morning. As an individual committed to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, I - like so many others - am deeply saddened by her passing. During this time, however, as our thoughts are with her family and the many people who were affected by her life, it is important that we as a community look back on the life that she lead, and commit to following her legendary and unyieldingly passionate example of what it means to be a disability rights advocate.
Aug 11, 2009 - 1:13:15 PM
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