The Democratic Convention, the Disability Community & the Future of America

Over the past few nights I like many Americans have been glued to the television watching the DNC Convention from Denver Colorado. What has really struck me is how prominent disability issues have played in this convention, whether directly or indirectly. Starting with Michelle Obama’s speech Monday night talking about her father who had MS and how his life with a disability gave her the lessons that she draws from to this day to be a better, mother, wife, friend and leader. From there I have heard speeches from the likes of Mark Warren, former governor of Virginia to of course to my Senator, Hillary Clinton. The issues of jobs, the global economy and healthcare resonated with me and the impact on the disability community going forward in this election cycle is crucial. Whether one is Republican or Democrat the fact that these issues are being discussed are vital to the future of our country. For people with disabilities I feel that jobs and healthcare are the touchstones for the future of the disability community in the United States. I am sure one would ask, isn’t that true for all Americans? My answer would simply be yes, but I feel that for the disability community this is lynch pin that will create greater participation into the general populous of American life. Full access to healthcare and competitive employment is vital for the future of this community. So come November I think we as the largest voting bloc in the US have to consider how we see our future and what we can do to steer the ship and give ourselves the best possible outcome.