Election '08

Prosthetic Parity Bill Introduced in the Senate

2008-10-09T03:51:00Z

On September 19, 2008, the U.S. Senate introduced the “Prosthetics Parity Act of 2008,” a bi-partisan supported bill that would ensure that those covered by employer-based health insurance have access to prosthetic care. The legislation is co-sponsored by Senator Olympia Snowe (R-ME), Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), Senator Daniel Inouye (D-HI) and Senator Russell Feingold (D-WI).

“The legislation which we are introducing today – the Prosthetics Parity Act of 2008 – will ensure that group health plans treat coverage of such prosthetic devices on par with other essential medical care covered by health insurance,” said Senator Snowe.

The bill’s introduction means that both houses of Congress are now considering legislation that would benefit amputees. In March, “the Prosthetic Parity Act” (HR 5615)—which would require health insurance companies to provide benefits for prosthetics on par with other medical care—was introduced into the House of Representatives.

Both pieces of legislation are strongly supported by the Amputee Coalition of America (ACA), a national non-profit organization that advocates for and empowers those with limb loss. According to President and CEO Kendra Calhoun, prosthetic care benefits offered by insurance companies are often too low to obtain a prosthesis; and when insurance companies do provide a prosthesis, they often limit beneficiaries to one per lifetime. According to Calhoun, adult amputees will need an average of one replacement every five years, while children need replacements even more frequently.

Data from the ACA also shows that health insurance parity laws are relatively inexpensive and would only increase the price of premiums by approximately 25 cents. According to Calhoun, “parity legislation would save the federal government and taxpayers money by preventing cost shifting for prosthetic care from the health insurance companies to government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid.”

Spates of state legislatures are currently working on prosthetic parity issues. Eleven states have passed prosthetic parity laws, while an additional 30 are advancing legislation at this time.

On a yearly basis, approximately 155,000 people in America lose a limb. Recent statistics show that almost two million Americans are currently living with amputations in the United States and 700,000 of them are under the age of 18.

“Sadly, we see those children particularly affected as their growth increases the frequency with which a prosthetic requires replacement,” said Senator Snowe. “That can quickly exceed a parent’s ability to meet co-payment requirements – a coverage cap may deny access to a replacement prosthetic,” he added.

Since it’s introduction, the House bill has generated a total of 25 co-sponsors and advocates are hopeful that the Senate bill will generate a similar outpouring of bi-partisan support.

Exercise Your Right to Vote

2008-09-29T20:30:00Z

In November, Americans will choose a president who will set our nation's course for at least the next four years, and whose impact will be felt for much longer. But don't wait until then to exercise your civic right and responsibility! Already, voters across the U.S. are helping to choose the nominees for both parties.

If you have a disability, you have just as much right as anyone else to participate in the electoral process. Whether you're a Democrat or a Republican, your state's primary elections or caucus meetings give you a chance to tell your party your preferred candidate.

A primary is an election, similar to the general elections in November, in which party members cast their votes for the candidate they like best. (In some states, any registered voter can vote in either party's primary election, but in most states, you have to be affiliated to a party in order to vote in its primary.)

A caucus serves the same main purpose as a primary—selection of both party's candidates—but it uses a different format. A caucus is basically a neighborhood meeting. Your caucus location depends upon your address and party affiliation. In order to participate, you must be registered as a voter affiliated with that party, and you must show up on time and stay through the entire meeting.

By law, elections must be accessible to people with disabilities. In a primary election, this means that you must be able to vote privately and independently, regardless of disabilities such as visual impairment or mobility limitation. Polling places must be wheelchair-accessible, and the voting machines themselves must also be usable by people with disabilities. For example, if electronic voting machines are used, they must have features allowing blind people to get audio confirmation of their choices, and allowing those who can't operate buttons and levers to vote by voice, sip-and-puff, or some other hands-free mechanism. Such are the guarantees of the 2002 "Help America Vote Act," (HAVA).

HAVA does not specifically address caucuses, but these meetings are public activities and therefore are covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). They must be held in accessible locations and must not discriminate against anyone with a disability. If you are deaf, your party has a legal obligation to provide you with a sign language interpreter if you make that request with adequate advance notice.

How can you exercise your rights to play a part in these important decisions? First, find out when your state holds its primary or caucus. For the schedule, go to http://www.vote-smart.org.

Next, contact your local party officials, your city's election commission, or your state clerk and recorder's office to find out the location of your primary or caucus. You'll need to provide your name and home address in order to get this information.

Once you know where you are scheduled to vote, verify that it is, in fact, accessible to you. Request the accommodations that you need in order to participate fully and equally. Sadly, because the fact that the law requires it does not necessarily mean that access and accommodations will automatically be in place. People with disabilities in several states have already had to engage in advocacy to demand compliance with the law. A few have even had to file lawsuits.

Know your rights, and be ready to fight for them. Then make your voice heard during this important election year.

Will Palin Advocate on Behalf of People with Disabilities?

2008-09-08T22:34:00Z

The recent addition of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin to the presidential ticket of John McCain has galvanized the Republican Party—transforming Gov. Palin from a political figure barely known outside of the state of Alaska to a key component of the GOP election strategy.

A self-proclaimed hockey mom who’s been hailed by her colleagues as a maverick and conservative reformer, Palin’s dramatic entrance into the 2008 election has not only given Sen. McCain a boost in the polls, but has also bolstered his campaign’s position among Americans with disabilities.

Palin, 44, gave birth to her fifth child, Trig, in April 2008, after being told by doctors that Trig would be born with Down syndrome. Some reports estimate 80-90 percent of parents who receive prenatal diagnoses of Down syndrome for their children choose to abort, making Palin’s decision to have her child an important indicatorfor pro-life advocates and for parents with children with Down syndrome and special needs.

Online chat rooms that serve those with Down syndrome were abuzz after Palin’s selection, and her standing among the disability community was further heightened after her speech at the Republican National Convention on Sept. 3, 2008.

While addressing a television audience of millions, Palin was explicit about her support for children with special needs.

“Sometimes even the greatest joys bring challenge,” she said. “To the families of special-needs children all across this country, I have a message: For years, you sought to make America a more welcoming place for your sons and daughters. I pledge to you that if we are elected, you will have a friend and advocate in the White House.”

According to David Tolleson, executive director of the National Down Syndrome Congress, Palin’s political celebrity helps provide visibility for those with disabilities.

“It brings attention to both children and adults with Down syndrome,” he said.

However visibility doesn’t always translate into advocacy and many are wondering if Palin will follow her strong words with action on behalf of the disability community.

When pressed on how specifically Palin would work on behalf of children with special needs, her spokesperson Maria Comella declined to commit to any specific policy, instead reiterating the gist of what Palin had said in her speech.

“She is going to be an advocate in the White House on multiple levels because she understands the issue, what’s needed and what works,” Comella said.

Some disability activists in Alaska have stated that Palin did not emphasize working on behalf of those with disabilities during her tenure and are skeptical of her newfound advocacy. However, despite the fact that she wasn’t a participant in its development, Palin did sign two pieces of legislation that increased funding for children with special needs—one which substantially increased school district budgets for children with disabilities.

However, she also slashed the budget for Special Olympics by half while in office.

Palin’s intentions regarding specific disability policies remain “to be determined.” But it is clear that her life experience with a child with special needs has gained attention for the McCain campaign clout from Americans with disabilities, who have been seeking an advocate in the White House able to both understand and champion their needs.

Read More
For more information on the Republican National Convention, see Republican National Convention Does Minneapolis – and Disability?

For more information on the Democratic National Convention, see The Democratic National Convention, Disability, and the Unheard Voice.

To read more stories about parenting children with disabilities, see Early Intervention is Important for Children with Disabilities and How Fathers of Children with Disabilities Cope with the Diagnosis.

Disability Activists Congregate at DNC in Denver

2008-09-02T20:44:00Z

In the midst of jam-packed political activity, Democratic disability activists gathered at the Democratic National Convention in Denver the week of Aug. 25, 2008 to discuss their plans for furthering the disability agenda during the current electoral cycle.

In addition to the many grassroots events, forums, and seminars organized, the Democratic National Committee(DNC) held two official disability caucuses at which a wide range of issues were discussed.

Both caucuses were led by Kareem Dale, Senator Obama’s recently appointed disability vote director. Dale, who is partially blind, is responsible for all disability outreach efforts for the campaign, including attending national conferences, coordinating grassroots efforts, speaking at events as a surrogate and ensuring that campaign locations are accessible for voters with disabilities.

In moderating the caucuses, Dale was presented with a tough challenge, as the time allotted for the meetings was not sufficient for the amount of comments the audience had. However, Dale and his cohorts showed admirable flexibility and communication skills by ensuring that all those who desired to speak were heard—even when it meant extending the caucuses beyond their scheduled time period.

Comments from attendees ranged from issues of healthcare, voting access, accommodations, workplace discrimination and others. John Perry from the National Federation of the Blind called for the need for websites and cell phones to be accessible to the visually impaired and also warned of the dangers of hybrid cars to the blind. Another advocate in the crowd decried the high suicide rate among young people with disabilities and called for a national mentoring program.

Dennis Schulman, a blind Rabbi running for Congress in New Jersey, urged those with disabilities to run for office and to contribute ideas and information to his campaign. Many advocates called for more access and leadership roles to be created individuals with disabilities in the Democratic party as well.

“Words are nice, but we need action,” said Joe Beaver, an Obama delegate and the board president of the Colorado Cross-Disability Association.

The goal of the Obama campaign appeared to be grounded in two main objectives: provide activists with disabilities a clear-cut explanation of Senator Obama’s disability policy proposal and encourage them to not only vote for Senator Obama but work on behalf of his campaign as well.

“You have our policy, you have our information on the website, we need you to go out and hit the ground and do the type of community organizing that you folks are already doing across the country,” Dale said at the Aug. 27 caucus.

DNC Chairman Howard Dean also spoke at the event, stressing that it’s not politicians but voters that win elections, and asking attendees to each recruit 40 of their friends and relatives to the campaign.

Disability activists at the caucus were generally receptive to such a message, and Senator Obama’s support for the Community Choice Act (CCA)—which Senator McCain opposes—appears to have garnered him explicit support from some major disability groups.

The Denver-based organization ADAPT, which is known for leading the charge for accessible transportation in the late '80s early '90s with its direct action protests, hosted an event on Aug. 27 at which Mr. Dale spoke briefly. Many supporters wore T-shirts stating their support for Senator Obama due to his support for (CCA), and a few in attendance were regular Obama volunteers.

Sarah Caplan, 35, who has multiple sclerosis, said she had been making phone calls and registering voters for the Obama campaign for months. An Obama delegate at the state and county levels, she was initially drawn to Obama by the fact that “he doesn’t take money from lobbyists and thinks outside the box.”

Caplan believes Senator Obama’s disability policies to be superior to Senator McCain as well. Like many disability activists, she’s hopeful yet cautious that the current electoral cycle will bring more attention to disability issues.

“I think we have a voice, but I’m not sure if anyone is listening,” she said.

Republican National Convention Does Minneapolis – and Disability?

2008-09-02T16:54:00Z

The Republican National Convention (RNC) has gotten underway in St. Paul (formerly thought to be Minneapolis) this week, led off by speeches by First Lady Laura Bush and Cindy McCain, wife of presumptive Republican presidential candidate Senator John McCain.

Although many convention events were postponed or cancelled due to uncertainty about the impact of Hurricane Gustav on the Gulf Coast region, activities are now ramping up. Major media interest is coalescing around the choice of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as Senator McCain’s running mate, and convention delegates will likely be polled for a sense of whether or not the Palin choice will divide or energize the party.

Governor Sarah Palin and Disability

Palin should prove a “person of interest” to the disability community, as well. She is strongly anti-abortion, and chose to continue her own pregnancy after being informed that her son would have Down syndrome. Her obvious first-hand view of issues related to disability may raise their visibility for the Republican party as a whole, certainly a positive outcome.

In the meantime, and as this scenario plays out, Disaboom will be on the ground at the convention, blogging about events, people, and politics. Check out Disabled Politico for daily (hourly!) updates, and see who they’ve been interviewing (or listening to). Although there are not as many events and activities related to disability issues at the RNC as were hosted by the DNC, Governor Palin’s personal circumstances are sure to drive dialog about choices related to disability, and Disabled Politico will be there reporting.

The Convention, and Disability

And if you’re going to be in the area? Be sure to check out the work the city has done to help visitors with disabilities at Minneapolis Access for Disabled Travelers. It has great information not only for getting to – and around – Minneapolis, it also provides guidance for navigating the Minneapolis Convention Center.

Last, for information about Republican presidential candidate Senator John McCain, check out his profile and information here.

For ongoing coverage of the RNC, click here.

Showing Up for Democracy: PHAMALY Leads the Way

2008-08-20T22:06:00Z

PHAMALY, the Denver, Colorado-based theater troupe known for innovative and highly impactful performances, has taken on the world of politics and possibility in its new “Theatre-in-Education” project, Show Up for Democracy.

Show Up for Democracy is an educational touring production that dramatizes the importance of inclusion to the future of democracy. The original nonpartisan one-act musical follows a theatre ensemble, founded in 1776, as it struggles to keep the Show Up for Democracy going. A new member from the next generation challenges the troupe with fresh ideas for the next act. Will the democratic ensemble be able to work together to keep the show going, or will their differences drive them apart? What should our next act be?

Show Up for Democracy at the DNC
Developed for PHAMALY by an intergenerational creative team, this thought-provoking drama about inclusion opens up new perspectives on disability and catalyzes a new conversation about the democratic ensemble and our parts in it. During the Democratic National Convention (August 25-28), the cast will perform the show as entertainment – and, we can hope! – education for various Convention gatherings held in a number of downtown Denver venues.

Fall Tour Schedule
In September and October, the production tours regional high schools, colleges, and other community centers. A DVD and interactive website will keep the show going beyond the performance schedule and serve as the basis for extended educational programs and civic engagement. Parties interested in booking Show Up for Democracy and/or teachers interested in school/classroom engagement should email sufd@phamaly.org or call 303-575-0005.

About “Show Up For Democracy” and PHAMALY
Made possible by generous individuals, grants, and performance bookings, PHAMALY’s Show Up for Democracy project is a unique civic theatre experience whose goal is to usher in a period of hope and inclusion in American democratic life.

PHAMALY (The Physically Handicapped Actors and Musical Artists League) is a Denver-based theatre company that is the only group in the country to produce large-scale professional productions featuring an entire cast of actors with disabilities. PHAMALY’s mission is to enable persons with disabilities to showcase their talents and abilities through live productions and to make the performing arts more accessible to everyone.

Read More
For more information on PHAMALY and their productions, see It’s All in the PHAMALY.

Want to know what Disaboom is doing at the DNC? See The Democratic National Convention, Disability, and the Unheard Voice.

Accessible Denver: Getting Around in the Mile-High City

2008-08-20T16:23:00Z

Just in time to welcome thousands of pols, pundits, delegates, and a candidate or two, the Accessible Denver website has gone live.

The site was created by the Accessible Denver Committee, a partnership of concerned Denver citizens and city personnel, both with and without disabilities, to help ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable stay for Democratic National Convention visitors.

Denver Information for Those with Disabilities
Although called “a work in progress,” the website includes information for accessible transportation, blind/visually impaired, deaf/hearing impaired, mobility impaired, other types of disabilities, and service animals.

In addition, a “Medical Resources” section provides information about Denver-area hospitals, pharmacies, and medical/adaptive supplies sources; dialysis centers; emergency services locations; mental health centers; and nursing services.

Denver Resources and Guides
Another section, “Denver Resources and Guides,” tells you everything you need to know about accessibility for the Denver Performing Arts Center, Denver International Airport (DIA), mapping out Downtown Denver, the Downtown Denver Partnership, Denver parks and recreation, things to do in Denver, the Regional Transportation District (RTD), and the 311 directory call for city services.

High-Altitude Travel Tips
In addition, a “travel tips for Colorado” overview points out all the things you need to know for navigating the days and nights in the Mile-High City (hint for conventioneers: at high altitudes, the effect of alcohol is greatly enhanced!).

Denver Known as One of the Most Accessible Cities
Sponsored by the Denver Commission for People with Disabilities, Accessible Denver is a terrific resource to help not only visitors, but also Denver residents, enjoy the best life has to offer in the city. It’s also a testament to what can happen when local leadership, active and dedicated citizens, and a great idea come together. But then, that’s what’s to be expected from one of America’s most accessible cities.

The Democratic National Convention, Disability, and the Unheard Voice

2008-08-18T17:58:00Z

The Democratic National Convention hits Denver this week, and Disaboom will be there in force. With a focus on “the unheard voice” of 54 million Americans with disabilities (including 37 million registered voters), Disaboom will be working hard to get the issues of the disability community front and center for the candidates, the delegates, and the media.

To turn up the volume on that unheard voice, Disaboom will be sponsoring the following events, taking place during the week-long Convention:

• “Show Up for Democracy”: PHAMALY (Physically Handicapped Actors and Musical Artists League) will present the need for inclusion in democracy in their one-act musical, “Show up for Democracy,” on Sunday, August 24 at 1 p.m. at Civic Center Park and Wednesday, August 27 at 7 p.m. at City Park. If you’re at the convention, speak to PHAMALY on-camera after the show and your thoughts may be featured on www.disaboom.com.

• Adaptive Adventures: Adaptive Adventures’ booth at the Green Frontier Fest on Sunday, August 24 in Denver’s Sculpture Park will be the place to learn more about the adaptive equipment available to people with disabilities and the adventures that are still possible. Attendees can meet Paralympian hand-cyclist Alejandro Albor on Sunday, August 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• All-Access Bike Station: Convention-goers will be able to borrow a recumbent, upright, racing or off-road hand cycle Saturday, August 23 through Thursday, August 28 at the Denver Children’s Museum to help keep Denver green – and accessible. In addition, attendees can join Paralympian hand-cyclist Alejandro Albor at the kickoff event, which departs from the Brighton Warehouse, 4120 Brighton Blvd., in Denver, on Sunday, August 24th at 11:30 a.m. and concludes at the Denver Children’s Museum. In addition, members of the Congressional Biking Caucus will be greeting Convention attendees 2-4 p.m.

The All Access Bike Station is part of the "Freewheelin” program, a joint effort between Boulder, Colorado-based Bikes Belong, Human Incorporated, and the Denver Host Committee. The hand cycles are being provided by Adaptive Adventures.

• VSA Arts: This internationally-recognized program for fine and performing arts will host a community of artists with disabilities who will be speaking through their art, which will be displayed on Sunday, August 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Denver Convention Marketplace at Civic Center Park.

• DNC Bloggers: Disaboom will be blogging live from the DNC Blogger Tent. You can follow the bloggers’ convention experiences and observations at www.disaboom.com/disabledpolitico.

In addition, Disaboom will be working to gain visibility for disability issues by:

• Sponsoring a coffee station manned by the Unseen Bean: We’ll be asking bloggers and members of the mainstream media to join us in the Big Tent every morning Monday through Thursday to enjoy a cup of coffee, compliments of Disaboom and The Unseen Bean Coffee Company, a Boulder, CO-based company founded and run by Gerry Leary, a master roaster who is blind.

• Media/Delegate-Only Theater Performance: PHAMALY will be putting on a media- and delegate- only performance of “Show Up For Democracy” to give bloggers and journalists an opportunity to interact with them directly on the critical issue of the need for inclusion in democracy on Tuesday, August 26 at 12:30 p.m. at the STARZ Film Center.

• Survey Says: Disaboom is currently surveying its community members directly to gather their opinions about politics, the political parties, and disability. (Have you registered your opinion? If not, we want to hear from you! Go to http://www.disaboom.com/Community/Organizations/Polls to have your say.

The survey results, which go live online at www.disaboom.com Sunday, August 24, will be yet another way of letting the candidates, delegates, and media know where a representative sampling of the disability community stands on the following issues:

• If you were to vote today, which candidate would you vote for?
• As a person affected by disability, do you feel you have a voice in today’s political system?
• How much attention do the presidential candidates give people with disabilities compared to other minority groups? More than other minority groups, equal to other minority groups, less than other minority groups.

(To receive a copy of the survey results, please send an e-mail to DisaboomSurvey@gmail.com and type the word “Survey” in the subject line.)

Keep an eye on the convention blogs for the latest news, interviews, and information from the Convention – and let us know in the Disabled Politico comments section (www.disaboom.com/disabledpolitico) if there are questions you want us to ask on your behalf while we’re there!

For more on Accessible Denver and getting around town, check out tips and resources here.

Read More
Discover a theater and arts program for people with disabilities, It’s All in the PHAMALY.

Read about Gerry Leary who will be providing coffee at the DNC, Unseen Bean: The Blind Coffee Entrepreneur.

For more information on VSA Arts, see VSA Arts Program Helps Kids Connect with Their Creative Side

For more on disability politics, check out Disabled Politico.

Disability Forum Features Senators Harkin and McCain; Highlights Disability Issues

2008-07-31T20:45:00Z

Sponsored by more than 80 national, state, and local organizations and held on the 18-year anniversary of the ADA(July 26, 2008), the National Forum on Disability Issues was a testament to the increasing strength of the disability vote. Advocates with and without disabilities converged in Columbus, Ohio with a common goal: awaken politicians to the political power that individuals with disabilities have and the issues that they value the most.

The forum featured speeches from a diverse group of disability advocates. In his intro speech, Actor David Hall, best known for his role as Coroner Albert Robbins on the hit-show CSI, spliced humor with poignant anecdotes about acting with a disability.

Following him, journalist Judy Woodruff introduced a panel of leaders in the disability community. Composed of Navy veteran Paul Tobin, Rebecca Hare of the Institute for Educational Leadership, Chester Finn, Vice President of Self Advocates Becoming Empowered and Cynthia Owens of the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities, the group tackled issues such as: employment, education, healthcare, civil rights, Medicaid, discrimination, stereotypes, and more.

While neither Senator Obama or Senator McCain attended in person, both participated in some fashion.

Senator Obama
Still wrapping up his transatlantic tour, Senator Obama was represented at the event by Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA). Harkin, who’s a venerated figure in the disability community, rallied for a quick passage of the ADA Restoration Amendment and the Community Choice Act. He urged Congress to amend SSI and SSDI to cover individuals with higher incomes, so those with disabilities don’t have to choose between receiving benefits and working.

A polished campaigner, Harkin deftly merged his message with that of the Obama campaign, and in doing so fulfilled the role of an advocate and a surrogate simultaneously.

Harkin criticized Senator McCain for not supporting the Community Choice Act He also suggested that the Supreme Court justices McCain admires—Scalia, Roberts and Alito— are those who stripped the protections of the ADA from millions of individuals by narrowly defining the language of the Act. Harkin also argued that the Community Choice Act could be funded for the price of “a week of the war in Iraq,” a pre-emptive rebuke to McCain’s later arguments that the Act was fiscally irresponsible.

Senator McCain
Senator McCain—who spent the majority of Saturday entertaining GOP dignitaries at a barbeque in Arizona—made time to address the audience via satellite and take a few questions from moderator Judy Woodruff. For the first time, he stated his explicit support for ADA restoration.

McCain also emphasized his commitment to supporting injured veterans, stating that the Walter Reed scandal was a travesty that could never be repeated. Although Senator McCain stated that he supported the principles behind the Community Choice Act, he explained that he thought the bill was too expensive to fund.

When pressed on Harkin’s allegation that the nominees he admires eviscerated the protections of the ADA, McCain insisted that it was not the mission of the Supreme Court to make laws, but to strictly interpret them. He added that the onus for problems with the ADA should not be placed on the Supreme Court, but on those who wrote it, such as himself and Senator Harkin.

Disability Community Triumphs
The most visible winner at Saturday’s event was the disability community itself. There was a visceral enthusiasm amongst the crowd that the disability movement was on the verge of breaking through the labyrinth of stereotypes and prejudices they have been stifled with for years. Many of the advocates felt empowered by the fact that they were able to garner attention from two U.S. Senators—one of whom was the GOP’s presidential nominee.

Now, the challenge for disability advocates will be to consolidate the gains they made this weekend in Columbus and continue to emphasize the strength of the disability voting bloc to politicians. At 37 million strong, voters with disabilities have the power to sway elections. If they make it clear that they will reward candidates who advocate on behalf of their agenda with their votes, they should be able to ensure a brighter and more accessible future for Americans with disabilities.

National Forum on Disability Issues Webcasted Live on Disaboom.com July 26

2008-07-11T15:33:00Z

The National Forum on Disability Issues, a non-partisan forum on national disability policy, will be held on July 26, 2008 in Columbus, Ohio. The forum will commemorate the 18th anniversary of the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and address the issues most important to the disability community in the current electoral cycle.

The event—organized by the American Association for People with Disabilities (AAPD) and co-sponsored by over 60 national, state, and local disability groups—builds on the success of AAPD's first-ever presidential candidate forum held in New Hampshire in November, at which five candidates attended in person and two by phone.

Presumptive presidential nominees Senator Barack Obama and Senator John McCain have been invited to participate in the July forum, which will allow both candidates to present their disability policy plans individually.

Afterwards, journalist and news-anchor Judy Woodruff (The News Hour with Jim Lehrer") will moderate a question and answer session with the candidates. Topics covered will include employment, healthcare, long-term community-based supports, transportation, education and more.

The event will be held at the Conference & Technology Center at the First Church of God, a completely accessible venue with a max capacity of over 1,000. Candidates speeches and answers will be simultaneously captioned and translated by American Sign Language interpreters at the event

Registration is free and still open, but organizers urge those desiring to attend to register soon at http://www.govoter.org/presidential_forum/index.aspx,

For those unable to attend in person, the forum will be broadcast live and in its entirety by Disaboom.com—the world's largest web community for individuals with disabilities. To see the forum, visit www.disaboom.com/AAPDSignUp.aspx.

"In this historic election year, we think it's vital that politicians recognize the importance of voters with disabilities," said Disaboom co-founder Glen House. “This is why we're proud to provide free online access to the disability community for this event."

Organizers are encouraging voters to form watching parties in order to stimulate dialogue and ensure that those without access to a computer are able to participate.

Additionally, the forum will be broadcast on all Ohio reading services, allowing Ohio residents without computers to listen in to the candidates’ platforms and answers.

Many disability-rights advocates believe that the forum is a unique opportunity for the presidential candidates to reach voters with disabilities—a demographic that is currently 37 million strong—as well as their families, caregivers, advocates and friends.

For more information on the forum, go to http://www.govoter.org/presidential_forum/index.aspx.

To register to watch the live webcast, visit: www.disaboom.com/AAPDSignUp.aspx

Click to visit Barack Obama's Profile on Disaboom

Disability-Advocacy Group Memorializes Murder Victim with Cognitive Disabilities

2008-06-11T15:25:00Z

The Chicago-based disability-advocacy group FRIDA (Feminist Response in Disability Activism) took to the streets of Alton, Illinois on May 31 to protest the murder of a woman with cognitive disabilities by her housemates and caretakers.

Dorothy Dixon, who had a cognitive disability, was tortured to death over a two-month period before her body was eventually found by investigators on January 31 of this year.

Police say that Dixon, who was pregnant at the time, was shot with a BB gun, scalded with burning water, beaten with a wooden plunger, and subjected to various other forms of torture.

Charged with Dixon’s murder—and that of her unborn child—was her caregiver Michelle Riley along with three teenagers and a 12-year-old child.

The memorial march began at IMPACT Inc., “a self-help, advocacy organization” for people with disabilities, where participants spoke passionately about their feelings about Dixon’s murder and abuse towards those with disabilities.

Then, approximately 30 activists walked and wheeled ¾ of a mile under a blazing hot sun to Dixon’s former home, while chanting slogans such as “What do we want? Justice! When do we want it? Now!,” and “Up with respect! Down with abuse!”

“We went through a residential neighborhood that had a mix of working class and poor homes. We saw a few other folks with disabilities,” wrote FRIDA activist Amber Smock on the organization’s blog.

Upon arriving, the group met held a moment of silence and met with the house’s current owners, Jessie and Robbin Hicks, who were sympathetic to their cause.

"I support any of this because I hate to see this happen to any female; it's just wrong," Robbin Hicks said, adding that she was unaware of the murder before purchasing the home.

The FRIDA members—many of whom either have disabilities or friends or relatives with disabilities—conceived the march as a way to not only remember Dixon’s death, but to draw attention to the issue of abuse in the disability community in general.

According to the group, those with disabilities are “historically more likely to become victims of physical violence, as well as emotional and financial abuse.” Women with disabilities are more likely to be targeted as well.

“No one knows what’s it’s like to go through that unless it’s being done to you,” said FRIDA member Veronica Martinez. “If someone was planning to do that to me, I would like to be prepared.”

The FRIDA members, who describe themselves as “a group of radicalized women with disabilities,” were looking to raise consciousness to an issue that doesn’t get near the attention it deserves, and in the process many felt the emotional effects of memorializing a horrific murder.

“At the end of the day, I was still enormously angry and sad, but I also felt empowered and powerful,” Smock said on FRIDA’s blog. “We hurdled so many barriers to get this done—and we made it.”

The group is considering returning to Alton on a yearly basis, and possibly establishing an annual Dorothy Dixon Memorial Parade.

U.S. Currency Ruled Discriminatory Towards Blind

2008-05-29T21:16:00Z

A ruling handed down by a federal appeals court in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, May 20, confirmed a lower-court decision that the U.S. discriminates against blind individuals by printing money with values that are indistinguishable to the visually impaired. The decision could force the Treasury Department to redesign its currency, likely using different sizes or raised markings to make it more accessible.

“This is a tremendous victory for the ACB and for every blind and visually impaired person living in the United States today,” said Mitch Pomerantz, President of the American Council of the Blind, the plaintiff in the lawsuit.

The lawsuit, initially filed in 2002, charged Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson of violating the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 by discriminating on the basis of disability.

The government agreed that its currency was difficult to decipher for those with visual impairments, but argued that adaptations such as using credit cards, asking for help from clerks, and folding bills alleviated the burden to blind individuals to the extent that the currency wasn't discriminatory. It also claimed that the costs associated with changing the currency would be unreasonably excessive.

In a 2-1 decision, the court disagreed, stating that such a position was equivalent to arguing that there's no need to make buildings wheelchair accessible, since individuals with disabilities could easily crawl up steps or ask to be carried by strangers.

The court also cited the fact that almost all other currency systems made accommodations for the blind.

“A large majority of other currency systems have accommodated the visually impaired, and the Secretary does not explain why U.S. currency should be any different,” said Judge Judith W. Rogers.

The dissenter in the ruling, Judge A. Raymond Randolph, cited the government’s argument that a new currency would force the replacement of over seven million food-and-beverage machines at a cost of $3.5 billion dollars as reason for his decision. Additionally, he argued that manufacturers of ATM machines and wallet and purses could be unfairly affected.

On an interesting side note, the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) denounced the judgment, calling it "profoundly misguided." According to the organization's president, Dr. Marc Maurer, "hundreds of thousands of blind people use paper money every day without difficulty.”

“We hope that this ruling will not have the unintended consequence of reinforcing society’s misconception that blind people are unable to function in the world as it currently is,” he added.

The Treasury Department has yet to state whether or not it plans to redesign the currency or file further appeals, but ACB attorney Jeffrey A. Lovitky said that he hopes the government agrees to change the currency instead of further litigating the issue.

“The Treasury Department has the means and the technology to change the design of American currency to help the blind,” he stated.

Prosthetics Parity Bill Mandates Better Compensation for Amputees

2008-05-14T15:40:00Z

Introduced into Congress on March 17, 2008 with bi-partisan support, the Prosthetic Parity Act (HR 5615) would require health insurance companies to provide benefits for prosthetics on par with other medical care. The legislation seeks to reverse a growing trend among health insurance companies, who have steadily decreased benefits for prosthetics in recent years.

According to a poll by the Amputee Coalition of America (ACA), approximately one quarter of Americans have experienced a decrease in prosthetic coverage over the last three years. Additionally, millions of Americans are unaware that they have disproportionally low prosthetic coverage, with some plans capping benefits at as little as $1,200 or eliminating them entirely.

“Thousands of people who face the trauma of limb loss also face additional shock when they discover that their insurance company will not pay for the prosthetic limb that will enable them to return to an active and productive lifestyle,” said Paddy Rossbach, CEO of the ACA, the main advocacy organization behind the legislation.

The ACA recently launched a coast-to-coast week of action to call attention to the bill. More than 90 events—such as rallies, lobby meetings, and postcard drives—were held across the country. Participants also organized bake sales to show how many amputees are forced to rely on demeaning forms of charity to pay for their limbs.

In addition to introducing the federal bill, the ACA has successfully passed ten statewide laws mandating prosthetic parity. Three have been signed in the last year, including Vermont, which enacted the legislation on April 23 after it was passed unanimously in the State Senate.

“I don’t want anyone to have to go through the shock and trauma of something like this happening, and then find out they have such limited insurance coverage,” said South Burlington resident Eileen Casey, a cancer victim with an amputation who had been working on behalf of the bill.

According to the ACA, providing equal benefits for prosthetics would only increase insurance premiums by between 12-35 cents, and even that miniscule cost would be compensated for by a decrease in long-term healthcare and an increase in productivity that would accompany better prosthetic coverage.

For the 1.7 million Americans currently living with amputations, and the 185,000 who become new amputees every year, such legislation is a necessity.

“When individuals discover that prosthetic care is not covered by their health insurer, or it is extremely limited, they may have to resort to using retirement funds or children’s college savings to purchase the prosthesis they need,” Rossbach said. “Some individuals in this situation have even taken mortgages out on their homes to get to the prosthesis they need.”

Disaboom.com Welcomes Senator Barack Obama

2008-05-13T21:18:00Z

Here at Disaboom.com, we’re excited to announce that Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama is now a member and participant in the Disaboom community. Senator Obama has chosen Disaboom as his primary venue for outreach and discussion regarding his positions on disability issues. He currently has a profile on the site, complete with a link to his comprehensive disability platform and a blog that he will be regularly posting to.

The addition of Senator Obama’s campaign to Disaboom represents one of the many steps Disaboom will be taking to ensure that those with disabilities have access to the information and resources they need to make an informed choice in the 2008 election. Over the next six months, we aspire to provide comprehensive coverage of the disability-related political issues that affect our users.

Besides Senator Obama, Disaboom is working to bring a variety of other political candidates to our community. Our hope is that they will use Disaboom as a forum to effectively address the concerns of the disability community. However, the success of this strategy is based on having a user base that actively engages the candidates, which is why we need your support.

We know that Disaboomers are passionate about politics and about advocacy; we also know that you’re concerned about issues like healthcare, assistive technology, accessible transportation, employment discrimination, the war in Iraq, the economy, and many more. Now, you have a forum to not only voice your questions, but to get answers.

Want to know Senator Obama’s position on the issues that mean the most to you? Then post a question as a comment on one of his blogs, and don’t be surprised if he addresses it specifically in a day or two. Don’t agree with his opinion? Well, you’ve got an open forum to let him know.

At Disaboom, we believe that democracy is not just about pulling a lever. It’s about asking questions, inciting dialogue, voicing opinions, and using your voice to help guide the course your nation will take.

So stop by Senator Obama’s profile and leave a comment, some feedback, or a gripe if you so desire. He’s now officially a member of Disaboom.com, and he’s eager to communicate with you.

Check out Barack Obama's profile

Congress and Caregiving: Respite, Support Initiatives

2008-05-07T18:51:00Z

A number of caregiver bills currently wending their way through Congress may, if passed, substantially ease the challenges of caring for a loved one. One of the most important areas being addressed is respite support. Among the most important of these initiatives:

S 1758/HR 3001: Community Living and Assistance Services and Supports (CLASS) Act
The CLASS Act would create a new national insurance program (financed through voluntary payroll deductions of $30 per month, with opt-out enrollment like Medicare Part B), to help adults with functional impairments to remain independent, employed, and part of their community. The funds would allow individual to pay for personal assistance services that would enable them to remain in their homes without unduly burdening family caregivers. Sponsored by Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA) and Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), this bill would give individuals added choice and access to supports without requiring them (or their caregivers) to become impoverished to qualify.

HR 1032: Alzheimer’s Treatment and Caregiver Support Act
Sponsored by Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA), this bill authorizes funding for expanded grants from the Health and Human Services Dept. for both public (governmental) and nonprofit providers that would work not only with Alzheimer’s patients but also provide training and support for their caregivers. A minimum of 10 percent of all grant funding would be directed to those health care organizations working primarily with those communities underserved with health care support.

S. 898, HR 1560: Alzheimer’s Breakthrough Act
Sponsored by Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) and Rep. Edward Markey (D-MA), S. 898/HR 1560 would amend the existing Public Health Service Act by providing funds for 1) increased levels of Alzheimer’s research, 2) assistance to caregivers, and 3) public education campaigns regarding Alzheimer’s prevention. It also stipulates that the National Institute of Aging conduct or support research related to caregiver support, among other research topics.

HR 2855: Wounded Heroes’ Bill of Rights Act
While this bill, sponsored by Ciro Rodrigquez (D-TX) focuses primarily on the provision of “transitional” emergency support to armed forces members and veterans severely injured while on active duty, it also addresses caregivers’ needs by broadening and improving support for their family caregivers.

HR 3070: Disabled Veterans’ Caregiver Compensation Act
Addressing the needs of family caregivers of military vets, this bill, sponsored by Rep. Collin Peterson (D-MN) establishes additional funding to vets who are already receiving service-connected disability support for “totally disabling” injuries in cases where the primary caregiver is a family member who is financially dependent on that veteran.

S 1885: Military Family Job Protection Act
Sponsored by Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL), S 1885 establishes employment protection for those family caregivers who are supporting armed forces members who have sustained illness and/or injuries while on active duty.
To make your voice heard with both the presidential candidates and your Congressional members regarding the importance of these bills, find contact information at http://www.house.gov/ and http://www.senate.gov.