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President's Committee Meeting on Employment of People with Disabilities 5/2/90 [OA 4729]
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President's Committee Meeting on Employment of People with Disabilities 5/2/90 [OA 4729]
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s): FOIA Number: S; 2006-0257-F S FOIA MARKER This is not a textual record. This is used as an administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential Library Staff. Record Group/Collection: George H.W. Bush Presidential Records Collection/Office of Origin: Speechwriting, White House Office of Series: Speech File Draft Files Subseries: Chron Files, 1989-1993 OA/ID Number: 13529 Folder ID Number: 13529-008 Folder Title: President's Committee Meeting on Employment of People with Disabilities 5/2/90 [OA 4729] Stack: Row: Section: Shelf: Position: G 26 16 2 7 THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release May 2, 1990 REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT AT THE PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE MEETING ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Washington Hilton Washington, D.C. 10:28 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. And Justin, thank you, my dear friend, for that most generous introduction. I'm just delighted to be with all of you. I want to say how pleased I am to see Ed Ramsey and thank him for what he and his company are doing in this field of interest to all of us. I had a little opportunity just before I came in here to say hello to another person I admire very much, Patricia Neal, over here. (Applause.) And the I was glad to see Chris Burke again. Last time I saw him he was running wild in the White House. Not really -- but he came over and we did a little tape together, but he's doing great and I'm so proud that he's with us here today. (Applause.) I'm going to get into real trouble on all this acknowledgement, but I'm delighted, of course, to be with Justin Dart. He is truly a great humanitarian. He's one of the strongest advocates for equal rights and equal opportunity for all Americans that I've ever met -- (applause) -- especially those with disabilities. And his hard work and perseverance through adversity benefited all of us. And you have to forgive me for rambling on about Justin. It's just that not only is he a friend, but he truly is one of the founding fathers of the Americans with Disabilities Act, one of the most important pieces of legislation to ever reach Capitol Hill. (Applause.) And as I said almost two years ago, it is time -- past time -- that people with disabilities are included in the mainstream of American life. (Applause.) As members of a community who are actively involved in helping disabled Americans join the work force, I don't have to tell you that we face many difficulties. More than two-thirds of our fellow citizens with disabilities of working age are, indeed, unemployed; and that is intolerable. And much of that unemployment stems from lack of opportunity. And ADA, that act, will form the foundation for policies and programs that can create opportunities for Americans with disabilities to find and hold jobs, and to enjoy the income and satisfaction that productive participation in society brings to us all. And no longer can we allow ignorance or prejudice to deny opportunities to millions of Americans with disabilities. (Applause.) We recognize your right to equal opportunity. And we need you abilities and skills. Anybody who takes a look at the demographics in this country and looks just over the horizon into the future knows that the problem is going to be not finding jobs for people but finding people for the jobs that exist as we move into the next -- towards the end of this decade. We welcome you -- the disabled -- into the mainstream of American life because it is your life as well as ours. Every American should be able to join the work force to MORE - 2 - the fullest extent of their abilities. And I am hopeful that the House of Representatives will take action soon on the ADA, just as the Senate took enthusiastic action last September. I look forward to signing a bill that will address the needs of our disabled citizens. And, frankly, it is my view that disabled citizens have waited long enough for equality. (Applause.) Now, I was asked over here for a special purpose. And this morning, I have the pleasure of sharing the stage with some truly exemplary Americans. And I wish I had time to introduce each one of them because their efforts are certainly outstanding. There is, however, one individual who deserves special mention. His name is David Schwartzkopf. As you saw -- and I understand you've just seen this video -- David has overcome some extremely tough obstacles -- cerebral palsy, legal blindness, early misdiagnosis -- to become a completely mainstreamed professional in a high-technology industry. Not content to merely be successful in his professional career, David is out in society doing all that he can to help other disabled Americans overcome some big hurdles. His inventions have helped visually impaired people enter the work force; his speeches have inspired management to rethink their hiring practices; and his consulting is helping to bring about equal opportunities. David gives meaning to the words dignity and independence. And so it is with great pleasure that I present you, David, with the President's Trophy proclaiming you the 1990 Disabled American of the Year. Congratulations for your help to so many others. Congratulations. (Applause.) END 10:35 A.M. EDT PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES / WASHINGTON HILTON WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1990 / 10:15 A.M. GOOD MORNING. THANK YOU JUSTIN (DART). It's GOOD TO SEE EDWARD RENSI [WREN-SEE], PATRICIA NEIL, CHRIS BURKE, AND THE AWARD WINNERS. I AM DELIGHTED TO BE HERE WITH JUSTIN, WHO IS TRULY A GREAT HUMANITARIAN AND ONE OF OUR STRONGEST ADVOCATES FOR EQUAL RIGHTS AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL AMERICANS -- ESPECIALLY THOSE WITH DISABILITIES. I - 2 - HIS HARD WORK AND PERSEVERANCE THROUGH ADVERSITY HAS BENEFITTED ALL OF US. You HAVE TO FORGIVE ME FOR RAMBLING ON ABOUT JUSTIN, IT'S JUST THAT NOT ONLY IS HE A FRIEND, HE IS ONE THE FOUNDING FATHERS OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES Act -- ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT PIECES OF LEGISLATION TO EVER REACH CAPITOL HILL. - 3 - As I SAID ALMOST TWO YEARS AGO, IT IS TIME -- PAST TIME -- THAT PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES ARE INCLUDED IN THE MAINSTREAM OF AMERICAN LIFE. As MEMBERS OF A COMMUNITY WHO ARE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN HELPING DISABLED AMERICANS JOIN THE WORKFORCE, I DON'T HAVE TO TELL YOU THAT WE FACE MANY DIFFICULTIES. MORE THAN TWO THIRDS OF OUR FELLOW CITIZENS WITH DISABILITIES OF WORKING AGE ARE UNEMPLOYED. THAT IS INTOLERABLE. MUCH OF THAT UNEMPLOYMENT STEMS FROM A LACK OF OPPORTUNITY. I - 4 - ADA WILL FORM THE FOUNDATION FOR POLICIES AND PROGRAMS THAT CAN CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES TO FIND AND HOLD JOBS, AND TO ENJOY THE INCOME AND SATISFACTION THAT PRODUCTIVE PARTICIPATION IN SOCIETY BRINGS TO ALL OF US. No LONGER CAN WE ALLOW IGNORANCE OR PREJUDICE TO DENY OPPORTUNITIES TO MILLIONS OF AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES. WE RECOGNIZE YOUR RIGHT TO EQUAL OPPORTUNITY. WE NEED YOUR ABILITIES AND SKILLS. - 5 - WE WELCOME YOU -- THE DISABLED -- INTO THE MAINSTREAM OF AMERICAN LIFE, BECAUSE IT IS YOUR LIFE AS WELL AS OURS. EVERY AMERICAN SHOULD BE ABLE TO JOIN THE WORKFORCE TO THE FULLEST EXTENT OF THEIR ABILITIES. AND I AM HOPEFUL THAT THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES WILL TAKE ACTION SOON ON THE ADA, JUST AS THEIR COUNTERPARTS IN THE SENATE DID LAST SEPTEMBER. I LOOK FORWARD TO SIGNING A BILL THAT WILL ADDRESS THE NEEDS OF OUR DISABLED CITIZENS. - 6 - DISABLED AMERICANS HAVE WAITED LONG ENOUGH FOR EQUALITY, THIS MORNING, I HAVE THE PLEASURE OF SHARING THE STAGE WITH SOME TRULY EXEMPLARY AMERICANS. I WISH I HAD TIME TO INTRODUCE EACH OF THEM BECAUSE THEIR EFFORTS ARE CERTAINLY OUTSTANDING. THERE IS, HOWEVER, ONE INDIVIDUAL WHO DESERVES SPECIAL MENTION. HIS NAME IS DAVID SCHWARTZKOPF. - 7 - As YOU SAW IN THE VIDEO, DAVID HAS OVERCOME SOME EXTREMELY TOUGH OBSTACLES -- CEREBRAL PALSY, LEGAL BLINDNESS, EARLY MISDIAGNOSIS -- TO BECOME "A COMPLETELY MAINSTREAMED PROFESSIONAL IN A HIGH- TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY." Not CONTENT TO MERELY BE SUCCESSFUL IN HIS PROFESSIONAL CAREER, DAVID IS OUT IN SOCIETY DOING ALL HE CAN TO HELP OTHER DISABLED AMERICANS OVER SOME BIG HURDLES. T - 8 - HIS INVENTIONS HAVE HELPED VISUALLY IMPAIRED PEOPLE ENTER THE WORKFORCE; HIS SPEECHES HAVE INSPIRED MANAGEMENT TO RE-THINK THEIR HIRING PRACTICES; AND HIS CONSULTING IS HELPING To BRING ABOUT EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES. DAVID GIVES MEANING TO THE WORDS DIGNITY AND INDEPENDENCE. So IT IS WITH GREAT PLEASURE THAT I PRESENT YOU WITH THE PRESIDENT'S TROPHY PROCLAIMING YOU THE 1990 DISABLED AMERICAN OF THE YEAR. CONGRATULATIONS. # # # in PRESIDENT H THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON 1990 Nice!! APR 30 PM 5: 33 April 30, 1990 GJ MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT THROUGH: DAVID DEMAREST 44 FROM: CHRISTINA MARTIN SUBJECT: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AWARDS CEREMONY I. SUMMARY: On Wednesday, May 2, you will attend an awards ceremony sponsored by the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities. You will speak before an audience of approximately 4,000 international participants of the three-day annual meeting of the President's Committee. The proposed text is six minutes long, and will be prepared on speechcards. II. DISCUSSION: The attached remarks reaffirm your stance on the Americans with Disabilities Act, and assist in your presentation of the President's Trophy for Disabled American of 1990 to David Schwartzkopf. Martin April 30, 1990 Draft Two Title: Disa PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES WASHINGTON HILTON / WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1990 10:15 A.M. ( (ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Justin Dart, Edward Rensi [WREN-see] (Chief Operating Officer McDonald's USA), Patricia Neil, and Award Winners.) I am delighted to be here with Justin, who is truly a great humanitarian and one of our strongest advocates for equal rights and equal opportunity for all Americans -- especially those with disabilities. His hard work and perseverance through adversity has benefitted all of us. You have to forgive me for rambling on about Justin, it's just that not only is he a friend, he is one the founding fathers of the Americans with Disabilities Act -- one of the most important pieces of legislation to ever reach Capitol Hill. As I said almost two years ago, it is time -- past time -- that people with disabilities are included in the mainstream of American life. As members of a community who are actively involved in helping disabled Americans join the workforce, I don't have to tell you that we face many difficulties. More than two thirds of our fellow citizens with disabilities of working age are unemployed. That is intolerable. Much of that unemployment stems from a lack of opportunity. ADA will form the foundation for policies and programs that can create 2 opportunities for Americans with disabilities to find and hold jobs, and to enjoy the income and satisfaction that productive participation in society brings to all of us. No longer can we allow ignorance or prejudice to deny opportunities to millions of Americans with disabilities. We recognize your right to equal opportunity. We need your abilities and skills. We welcome you -- the disabled -- into the mainstream of American life, because it is your life as well as ours. Every American should be able to join the workforce to the fullest extent of their abilities. And I am hopeful that the House of Representatives will take action soon on the ADA, just as their counterparts in the Senate did last September. I look forward to signing a bill that will address the needs of our disabled citizens. Disabled Americans have waited long enough for equality. This morning, I have the pleasure of sharing the stage with some truly exemplary Americans. I wish I had time to introduce each of them because their efforts are certainly outstanding. There is, however, one individual who deserves special mention. His name is David Schwartzkopf. As you saw in the video, David has overcome some extremely tough obstacles -- cerebral palsy, legal blindness, early misdiagnosis -- to become "a completely mainstreamed professional in a high-technology industry." Not content to merely be successful in his professional career, David is out in society doing all he can to help other disabled 3 Americans over some big hurdles. His inventions have helped visually impaired people enter the workforce; his speeches have inspired management to re-think their hiring practices; and his consulting is helping to bring about equal opportunities. David gives meaning to the words dignity and independence. So it is with great pleasure that I present you with the President's Trophy proclaiming you the 1990 Disabled American of the Year. Congratulations. # # # Document No. 136492 55 SS WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM DATE: 5/1/90 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER DARMAN ROGICH BATES UNTERMEYER CARD Rogers CICCONI Winston DEMAREST Punkerton FITZWATER GRAY HAGIN REMARKS: The attached has been forwarded to the President. RESPONSE: James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON 1990 APR 30 PM 5: 33 April 30, 1990 MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT 44 THROUGH: DAVID DEMAREST FROM: CHRISTINA MARTIN SUBJECT: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AWARDS CEREMONY I. SUMMARY: On Wednesday, May 2, you will attend an awards ceremony sponsored by the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities. You will speak before an audience of approximately 4,000 international participants of the three-day annual meeting of the President's Committee. The proposed text is six minutes long, and will be prepared on speechcards. II. DISCUSSION: The attached remarks reaffirm your stance on the Americans with Disabilities Act, and assist in your presentation of the President's Trophy for Disabled American of 1990 to David Schwartzkopf. Martin April 30, 1990 Draft Two Title: Disa PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES WASHINGTON HILTON / WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1990 10:15 A.M. ( (ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Justin Dart, Edward Rensi [WREN-see] (Chief Operating Officer McDonald's USA), Patricia Neil, and Award Winners.) I am delighted to be here with Justin, who is truly a great humanitarian and one of our strongest advocates for equal rights and equal opportunity for all Americans -- especially those with disabilities. His hard work and perseverance through adversity has benefitted all of us. You have to forgive me for rambling on about Justin, it's just that not only is he a friend, he is one the founding fathers of the Americans with Disabilities Act -- one of the most important pieces of legislation to ever reach Capitol Hill. As I said almost two years ago, it is time -- past time -- that people with disabilities are included in the mainstream of American life. As members of a community who are actively involved in helping disabled Americans join the workforce, I don't have to tell you that we face many difficulties. More than two thirds of our fellow citizens with disabilities of working age are unemployed. That is intolerable. Much of that unemployment stems from a lack of opportunity. ADA will form the foundation for policies and programs that can create 2 opportunities for Americans with disabilities to find and hold jobs, and to enjoy the income and satisfaction that productive participation in society brings to all of us. No longer can we allow ignorance or prejudice to deny opportunities to millions of Americans with disabilities. We recognize your right to equal opportunity. We. need your abilities and skills. We welcome you -- the disabled -- into the mainstream of American life, because it is your life as well as ours. Every American should be able to join the workforce to the fullest extent of their abilities. And I am hopeful that the House of Representatives will take action soon on the ADA, just as their counterparts in the Senate did last September. I look forward to signing a bill that will address the needs of our disabled citizens. Disabled Americans have waited long enough for equality. This morning, I have the pleasure of sharing the stage with some truly exemplary Americans. I wish I had time to introduce each of them because their efforts are certainly outstanding. There is, however, one individual who deserves special mention. His name is David Schwartzkopf. As you saw in the video, David has overcome some extremely tough obstacles -- cerebral palsy, legal blindness, early misdiagnosis -- to become "a completely mainstreamed professional in a high-technology industry." Not content to merely be successful in his professional career, David is out in society doing all he can to help other disabled 3 Americans over some big hurdles. His inventions have helped visually impaired people enter the workforce; his speeches have inspired management to re-think their hiring practices; and his consulting is helping to bring about equal opportunities. David gives meaning to the words dignity and independence. So it is with great pleasure that I present you with the President's Trophy proclaiming you the 1990 Disabled American of the Year. Congratulations. # # # Document No. 136492 WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM DATE: 04/27/90 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3:00 p.m. 04/30 SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABIL ITIES (04/26 draft one) ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER DARMAN ROGICH BATES UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS PINKERTON CICCONI DEMAREST WINSTON FITZWATER GRAY HAGIN REMARKS: Please provide any comments/recommendations directly to Chriss Winston Thanks. by 3:00 p.m. on Monday, 04/30, with a copy to my office. RESPONSE: see Comments. Holls Williamson 4-30-90 we were still writing for It :pd Assistant DE James RAR W. the 06 Cicconi to President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff comments from Hits, but Ext. 2702 here are the other ones. Thanks- Holy Martin April 26, 1990 Draft One 1990 APR 27 PM 5: 13 Title: Disa PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES WASHINGTON HILTON / WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1990 10:15 A.M. ( (ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Justin Dart, Award Winners, and Patricia Neal) ) I am delighted to be here with Justin, who is truly a great humanitarian and one of our strongest advocates for join the workforce, equal rights and equal opportunity for all Americans -- especially those with disabilities. His hard work and perseverance through adversity has benefitted all of us. You helping disabled americans have to forgive me for rambling on about Justin, it's just that not only is he a friend, he is one the founding fathers of the Americans with Disabilities Act -- one of the most important pieces of legislation to ever reach Capitol Hill. As I said almost two years ago, it is time -- past time -- that people with disabilities are included in the mainstream of American life. As members of a community who are actively issues pertaining to employment of persons with disabilits involved in/employment of the disabled issues, I don't have to tell you that we face many difficulties. More than two thirds of our fellow citizens with disabilities of working age are unemployed. That is intolerable. Much of that unemployment stems from a lack of opportunity. ADA will form the foundation for policies and programs that can create opportunities for Americans with disabilities to find and hold jobs, and to enjoy 2 the income and satisfaction that productive participation in society brings to all of us. No longer can we allow ignorance or prejudice to deny opportunities to millions of Americans with disabilities. We recognize your right to equal opportunity. We need your abilities and skills. We welcome you -- the disabled -- into the mainstream of American life, because it is your life as well as ours. Every American should be able to join the workforce to the This fullest extent of their abilities. Total access to society as goes loke well as personal and economic independence for the disabled is an beyond im delete important goal of this Administration. & And I am hopeful that the position House of Representatives will take action soon on the ADA, just could be dangerous, as their counterparts in the Senate did last September. I look forward to signing the Americans with Disabilities Act. Disabled Americans have waited long enough for equality. This morning, I have the pleasure of sharing the stage with some truly exemplary Americans. I wish I had to time to introduce each of them because their efforts are certainly however outstanding. However there isMone individual who deserves special mention. His name is David Schwartzkopf. As you saw in the video, David has overcome some extremely tough obstacles -- cerebral palsy, legal blindness, early misdiagnosis -- to become "a completely mainstreamed professional in a high-technology e to industry." Not content to merely/be successful in his own now professional career, David is/out in society doing all he can to 3 help other disabled Americans over some big hurdles. His inventions have helped visually impaired people enter the workforce; his speeches have inspired management to re-think their hiring practices; and his consulting is helping to bring about equal opportunities. David gives meaning to the words dignity and independence. So it is with great pleasure that I present you with the President's Trophy proclaiming you the 1990 Disabled American of the Year. Congratulations. # # # Document No. 136492 WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM DATE: 04/27/90 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3:00 p.m. 04/30 SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES (04/26 draft one) ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE N/C d SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT ? PORTER DARMAN ROGICH N/C BATES UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS - CICCONI PINKERTON N/C DEMAREST N/C R WINSTON FITZWATER GRAY HAGIN REMARKS: Please provide any comments/recommendations directly to Chriss Winston by 3:00 p.m. on Monday, 04/30, with a copy to my office. Thanks. RESPONSE: James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 Martin April 26, 1990 Draft One 1990 APR 27 PM 5: 13 Title: Disa PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES WASHINGTON HILTON / WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1990 10:15 A.M. ((ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Justin Dart, Award Winners, and Patricia Neal)) I am delighted to be here with Justin, who is truly a great humanitarian and one of our strongest advocates for equal rights and equal opportunity for all Americans -- especially those with disabilities. His hard work and perseverance through adversity has benefitted all of us. You have to forgive me for rambling on about Justin, it's just that not only is he a friend, he is one the founding fathers of the Americans with Disabilities Act -- one of the most important pieces of legislation to ever reach Capitol Hill. As I said almost two years ago, it is time -- past time -- that people with disabilities are included in the mainstream of American life. As members of a community who are actively subshtube involved in /employment of the disabled issues I don't have to tell you that we face many difficulties. More than two thirds of our fellow citizens with disabilities of working age are unemployed. That is intolerable. Much of that unemployment stems from a lack of opportunity. ADA will form the foundation for policies and programs that can create opportunities for Americans with disabilities to find and hold jobs, and to enjoy 2 the income and satisfaction that productive participation in society brings to all of us. No longer can we allow ignorance or prejudice to deny opportunities to millions of Americans with disabilities. We recognize your right to equal opportunity. We need your abilities and skills. We welcome you -- the disabled -- into the mainstream of American life, because it is your life as well as ours. Every American should be able to join the workforce to the fullest extent of their abilities. Total access to society as delete well as personal and economic independence for the disabled is an important goal of this Administration. And I am hopeful that the House of Representatives will take action soon on the ADA, just as their counterparts in the Senate did last September. I look a bill that will address the needs of our disabled citizens. forward to signing the Americans with Disabilities Act. Disabled Americans have waited long enough for equality. This morning, I have the pleasure of sharing the stage with some truly exemplary Americans. I wish I had to I time to introduce each of them because their efforts are certainly outstanding. However, T there is one individual who deserves however, special mention. His name is David Schwartzkopf. As you saw in the video, David has overcome some extremely tough obstacles -- cerebral palsy, legal blindness, early misdiagnosis -- to become "a completely mainstreamed professional in a high-technology industry." Not content to merely be successful in his professional career, David is out in society doing all he can to 3 help other disabled Americans over some big hurdles. His inventions have helped visually impaired people enter the workforce; his speeches have inspired management to re-think their hiring practices; and his consulting is helping to bring about equal opportunities. David gives meaning to the words dignity and independence. So it is with great pleasure that I present you with the President's Trophy proclaiming you the 1990 Disabled American of the Year. Congratulations. # # # Document No. 136492 WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM DATE: 04/27/90 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3:00 p.m. 04/30 SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES (04/26 draft one) ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER x DARMAN ROGICH BATES UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS - PINKERTON CICCONI DEMAREST R WINSTON FITZWATER E GRAY HAGIN REMARKS: Please provide any comments/recommendations directly to Chriss Winston Thanks. by 3:00 p.m. on Monday, 04/30, with a copy to my office. RESPONSE: See comments 90 MAR 30 P4: 56 James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 Martin April 26, 1990 Draft One 1990 APR 27 PM 5: 13 Title: Disa PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES WASHINGTON HILTON / WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1990 10:15 A.M. ((ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Justin Dart, Award Winners, and Patricia Neal)) I am delighted to be here with Justin, who is truly a great humanitarian and one of our strongest advocates for equal rights and equal opportunity for all Americans -- especially those with disabilities. His hard work and perseverance through adversity has benefitted all of us. You have to forgive me for rambling on about Justin, it's just that not only is he a friend, he is one the founding fathers of the (ADA) Americans with Disabilities Act^ one of the most important Murr X pieces legislation to ever reach Capitol Hill of beconsedered by Congress. Y864 As I said almost two years ago, it is time -- past time -- that people with disabilities are included in the mainstream of American life. As members of a community who are actively involved in employment of the disabled issues, I don't have to tell you that we face many difficulties. More than two thirds of our fellow citizens with disabilities of working age are unemployed. That is intolerable. Much of that unemployment stems from a lack of opportunity. ADA will form the foundation for policies and programs that can create opportunities for Americans with disabilities to find and hold jobs, and to enjoy 2 the income and satisfaction that productive participation in society brings to all of us. No longer can we allow ignorance or prejudice to deny opportunities to millions of Americans with disabilities. We recognize your right to equal opportunity. We need your abilities and skills. We welcome you -- the disabled -- into the mainstream of American life, because it is your life as well as ours. Every American should be able to join the workforce to the fullest extent of their abilities. Total access to society as well as personal and economic independence for the disabled is an important goal of this Administration. And I am hopeful that the House of Representatives will take action soon on the ADA, just as their counterparts in the Senate did last September. I look forward to signing the Americans with Disabilities Act Disabled a bill that will address the needsof our disabled citizens. Americans have waited long enough for equality. Murl x4864 This morning, I have the pleasure of sharing the stage with some truly exemplary Americans. I wish I had to time to introduce each of them because their efforts are certainly outstanding. However, there is one individual who deserves special mention. His name is David Schwartzkopf. As you saw in the video, David has overcome some extremely tough obstacles -- cerebral palsy, legal blindness, early misdiagnosis -- to become "a completely mainstreamed professional in a high-technology industry." Not content to merely be successful in his professional career, David is out in society doing all he can to 3 help other disabled Americans over some big hurdles. His inventions have helped visually impaired people enter the workforce; his speeches have inspired management to re-think their hiring practices; and his consulting is helping to bring about equal opportunities. David gives meaning to the words dignity and independence. So it is with great pleasure that I present you with the President's Trophy proclaiming you the 1990 Disabled American of the Year. Congratulations. # # # U Document No. 136492 WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM DATE: 04/27/90 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3:00 p.m. 04/30 SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES (04/26 draft one) ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER DARMAN ROGICH BATES UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS - CICCONI PINKERTON DEMAREST R WINSTON FITZWATER GRAY HAGIN REMARKS: Please provide any comments/recommendations directly to Chriss Winston Thanks. by 3:00 p.m. on Monday, 04/30, with a copy to my office. RESPONSE: No Comment 4/30/90 25 :pd 0E MAR 06 James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON KRISTEN TAYLOR WOULD LIKE FOR US TO MENTION HER MTG TOMORROW WITH DISABLED MEDIA IN THESE REMARKS. Document No. 136492 WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM DATE: 04/27/90 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3:00 p.m. 04/30 SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES (04/26 draft one) ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER DARMAN ROGICH BATES UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS Y PINKERTON CICCONI DEMAREST R WINSTON FITZWATER GRAY HAGIN REMARKS: Please provide any comments/recommendations directly to Chriss Winston by 3:00 p.m. on Monday, 04/30, with a copy to my office. Thanks. RESPONSE: OK.SR 22:29 MAR O MAR 06 James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 Martin April 26, 1990 Draft One 1990 APR 27 PM 5: 13 Title: Disa PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES WASHINGTON HILTON / WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1990 10:15 A.M. (ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Justin Dart, Award Winners, and Patricia Neal)) I am delighted to be here with Justin, who is truly a great humanitarian and one of our strongest advocates for equal rights and equal opportunity for all Americans -- especially those with disabilities. His hard work and perseverance through adversity has benefitted all of us. You have to forgive me for rambling on about Justin, it's just that not only is he a friend, he is one the founding fathers of the Americans with Disabilities Act -- one of the most important pieces of legislation to ever reach Capitol Hill. As I said almost two years ago, it is time -- past time -- that people with disabilities are included in the mainstream of American life. As members of a community who are actively involved in employment of the disabled issues, I don't have to tell you that we face many difficulties. More than two thirds of our fellow citizens with disabilities of working age are unemployed. That is intolerable. Much of that unemployment stems from a lack of opportunity. ADA will form the foundation for policies and programs that can create opportunities for Americans with disabilities to find and hold jobs, and to enjoy 2 the income and satisfaction that productive participation in society brings to all of us. No longer can we allow ignorance or prejudice to deny opportunities to millions of Americans with disabilities. We recognize your right to equal opportunity. We need your abilities and skills. We welcome you -- the disabled -- into the mainstream of American life, because it is your life as well as ours. Every American should be able to join the workforce to the fullest extent of their abilities. Total access to society as well as personal and economic independence for the disabled is an important goal of this Administration. And I am hopeful that the House of Representatives will take action soon on the ADA, just as their counterparts in the Senate did last September. I look forward to signing the Americans with Disabilities Act. Disabled Americans have waited long enough for equality. This morning, I have the pleasure of sharing the stage with some truly exemplary Americans. I wish I had to time to introduce each of them because their efforts are certainly outstanding. However, there is one individual who deserves special mention. His name is David Schwartzkopf. As you saw in the video, David has overcome some extremely tough obstacles -- cerebral palsy, legal blindness, early misdiagnosis -- to become "a completely mainstreamed professional in a high-technology industry." Not content to merely be successful in his professional career, David is out in society doing all he can to 3 help other disabled Americans over some big hurdles. His inventions have helped visually impaired people enter the workforce; his speeches have inspired management to re-think their hiring practices; and his consulting is helping to bring about equal opportunities. David gives meaning to the words dignity and independence. So it is with great pleasure that I present you with the President's Trophy proclaiming you the 1990 Disabled American of the Year. Congratulations. # # # Martin April 26, 1990 Draft Zero Title: Handi PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES WASHINGTON HILTON / WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1990 ( (ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Justin Dart, Award Winners, and Patricia Neal) ) I am delighted to be here with Justin, who is truly a great humanitarian and one of our strongest advocates for equal rights and equal opportunity for all Americans -- including especia those with disabilities. His hard work and perseverance through adversity has benefitted all of us. You have to forgive me for rambling on about Justin, it is just that not only is he a friend, he is one the founding fathers of the Americans with Disabilities Act one of the most mpn tont picess of legislation to ever more Capital Hice, As I said almost two years ago, it is time -- past time -- that people with disabilities are included in the mainstream of American life. Without strong protection. rights and encourage that bothut the thousand - the Americans with Disabili that inc dess who 47 seve how the doree cannot-occur. As members of this committee who are actively so securit. of the disabled a community to, involved in employment issues relating to people with disabilities, I don't have to tell you that we face many difficulties. More than two thirds of our fellow citizens with disabilities who are of working age are unemployed. That is much intolerable, when you and I know that a great deal of that a unemployment stem<from lack of opportunity. ADA will form the the foundation 2 corner tone for policies and programs that can create opportunities for Americans with disabilities to find and hold jobs, and to enjoy the income and satisfaction that productive participation in society can bring to all of us. No longer can we allow ignorance or prejudice to deny opportunities to millions of Americans with disabilities# We recognize your right to equal opportunity. We need your abilities and skills. We welcome you the because discobled. into the mainstream of American life for it is your life as well B.F. as ours. It is unacceptable that 43 million Americans can still be denied access to many fundamental opportunities to participate equally with their fellow citizens. There is no justifiable. join the reason-why every American should net be able to participate in the workforce to the fullest extent of their abilities. The achievement of Total full access to society as well as personal and economic independence for the disabled is an important goal to of am hopeful this Administration. And I stand assured that the House of take action soon on the aDA Representatives will soon agree, just as their counterparts in east the Senate did on September, 7, 1989. I look forward to signing Disculed americans the Americans with Disabilities Act. This morning I have the pleasure of sharing the stage with some truly exemplary Americans. I wish I had to time to them vecause introduce each of the employers to this audience their efforts are certianly outstanding, but you will hear more about them soon who deserves after my departure. However, there is one individual I to want Special mention. to bring to your attention His name is David Schwartzkopf. As have waited Long enough for equality. B.F.) (B,F. 3 you saw in the video, David has overcome some extremely tough obstacles -- cerebral palsy, legal blindness, early misdiagnosis -- to become "a completely mainstreamed professional in a high- technology industry." Not content to merely be successful in his professional career, David is out in society doing all he can to some beg help other disabled Americans over the hurdles that only they have to straddle His inventions have helped visually impaired people enter the workforce, his speeches have inspired management to re-think their hiring practices, and his is gives consulting meaning helping 40 the words) to bring about equal opportunities. David IS a true picture of dignity and independence. So it is with great pleasure that I with present you the President's Trophy proclaiming you the 1990 Disabled American of the Year. Congratulations. # # # THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON April 30, 1990 MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT THROUGH: DAVID DEMAREST FROM: CHRISTINA MARTIN SUBJECT: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AWARDS CEREMONY I. SUMMARY: On Wednesday, May 2, you will attend an awards ceremony sponsored by the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities. You will speak before an audience of approximately 4,000 international participants of the three-day annual meeting of the President's Committee. The proposed text is six minutes long, and will be prepared on speechcards. II. DISCUSSION: The attached remarks reaffirm your stance on the Americans with Disabilities Act, and assist in your presentation of the President's Trophy for Disabled American of 1990 to David Schwartzkopf. Martin April 30, 1990 Draft Two Title: Disa PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES WASHINGTON HILTON / WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1990 10:15 A.M. ((ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Justin Dart, Edward Rensi [WREN-see] (Chief Operating Officer McDonald's USA), Patricia Neil, and Award Winners.) I am delighted to be here with Justin, who is truly a great humanitarian and one of our strongest advocates for equal rights and equal opportunity for all Americans -- especially those with disabilities. His hard work and perseverance through adversity has benefitted all of us. You have to forgive me for rambling on about Justin, it's just that not only is he a friend, he is one the founding fathers of the Americans with Disabilities Act -- one of the most important pieces of legislation to ever reach Capitol Hill. As I said almost two years ago, it is time -- past time -- that people with disabilities are included in the mainstream of American life. As members of a community who are actively involved in helping disabled Americans join the workforce, I don't have to tell you that we face many difficulties. More than two thirds of our fellow citizens with disabilities of working age are unemployed. That is intolerable. Much of that unemployment stems from a lack of opportunity. ADA will form the foundation for policies and programs that can create 2 opportunities for Americans with disabilities to find and hold jobs, and to enjoy the income and satisfaction that productive participation in society brings to all of us. No longer can we allow ignorance or prejudice to deny opportunities to millions of Americans with disabilities. We recognize your right to equal opportunity. We need your abilities and skills. We welcome you -- the disabled -- into the mainstream of American life, because it is your life as well as ours. Every American should be able to join the workforce to the fullest extent of their abilities. And I am hopeful that the House of Representatives will take action soon on the ADA, just as their counterparts in the Senate did last September. I look forward to signing a bill that will address the needs of our disabled citizens. Disabled Americans have waited long enough for equality. This morning, I have the pleasure of sharing the stage with some truly exemplary Americans. I wish I had time to introduce each of them because their efforts are certainly outstanding. There is, however, one individual who deserves special mention. His name is David Schwartzkopf. As you saw in the video, David has overcome some extremely tough obstacles -- cerebral palsy, legal blindness, early misdiagnosis -- to become "a completely mainstreamed professional in a high-technology industry." Not content to merely be successful in his professional career, David is out in society doing all he can to help other disabled 3 Americans over some big hurdles. His inventions have helped visually impaired people enter the workforce; his speeches have inspired management to re-think their hiring practices; and his consulting is helping to bring about equal opportunities. David gives meaning to the words dignity and independence. So it is with great pleasure that I present you with the President's Trophy proclaiming you the 1990 Disabled American of the Year. Congratulations. # # # 04 30. 90 05:39 PM P O 2 SENT BY:The White House : 4-30-80 ; 3:19PM ; CABINET AFFAIRS- 92457203:# 2 Martin April 25, 1990 Draft One 1990 APR 27 PM 5: 13 Title: Disa PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES WASHINGTON HILTON / WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1990 10:15 A.M. ((ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Justin Dart, Award Winners, and Patricia Neal)) I am delighted to be here with Justin, who is truly a great humanitarian and one of our strongest advocates for equal rights and equal opportunity for all Americans -- especially those with disabilities. His hard work and perseverance through adversity has benefitted all of us. You have to forgive me for rambling on about Justin, it's just that of not only is he a friend, he is one, the founding fathers of the Americans with Disabilities Act -- one of the most important pieces of legislation to ever reach Capitol Hill. As I said almost two years ago, it is time -- past time -- that people with disabilities are included in the mainstream of American life. As members of a community who are actively issues relating to the involved in, employment of the disabled issues, I don't have to persons with disabilities, tell you that we face many difficulties. More than two thirds of our fellow citizens with disabilities of working age are Insert- see attached unemployed.A That is intolerable. Much of that unemployment stems from a lack of opportunity. ADA will form the foundation for policies and programs that can create opportunities for Americans with disabilities to find and hold jobs, and to enjoy 04. 30. 90 05:39 PM P04 SENT BY:The White Houco : 4-30-00 : 3:21PM : CABINET AFFAIRS- 02457203:# 3 2 the income and satisfaction that productive participation in society brings to all of us. No longer can we allow ignorance or prejudice to deny opportunities to millions of Americans with disabilities, including those with the most severe disabilities. We recognize your right to equal opportunity. We need your abilities and skills. We welcome you - the disabled - into the mainstream of American life, because it is your life as well as ours. Every American should be able to join the workforce to the fullest extent of their abilities. Total access to society as every A merican well as personal and economic independence for disabled is an important goal of this Administration. And I am hopeful that the House of Representatives will take action soon on the ADA, just as their counterparts in the Senate did last September. I look forward to signing the Americans with Disabilities Act. Disabled Americans have waited long enough for equality. This morning, I have the pleasure of sharing the stage with some truly examplary Americans. I wish I had to time to introduce each of them because their efforts are certainly outstanding, However, there is one individual who deserves special mention. His name is David Schwartskopf. As you saw in the video, David has overcome some extremely tough obstacles -- cerebral palsy, legal blindness, early misdiagnosis -- to become "A completely mainstreamed professional in a highwtechnology industry." Not content to merely be successful in his professional career, David is out in society doing all he can to INSERT for page I Over 90 percent of students with moderate or severe disabilities leave school today with a much better education but little hope of gainful employment. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON GENERAL FACSIMILE TRANSMITTAL SHEET NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER 6 DATE 4/30 TO EVAN KEMP FAX NUMBER 663-4110 OFFICE NUMBER 663-4001 COMMENTS FROM CHRISTINA MARTIN OFFICE NUMBER 456-7750 456-2930 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON April 30, 1990 MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT THROUGH: DAVID DEMAREST FROM: CHRISTINA MARTIN SUBJECT: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AWARDS CEREMONY I. SUMMARY: On Wednesday, May 2, you will attend an awards ceremony sponsored by the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities. You will speak before an audience of approximately 4,000 international participants of the three-day annual meeting of the President's Committee. The proposed text is six minutes long, and will be prepared on speechcards. II. DISCUSSION: The attached remarks reaffirm your stance on the Americans with Disabilities Act, and assist in your presentation of the President's Trophy for Disabled American of 1990 to David Schwartzkopf. Martin April 30, 1990 Draft Two Title: Disa PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES WASHINGTON HILTON / WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1990 10:15 A.M. ( (ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Justin Dart, Edward Rensi [WREN-see] (Chief Operating Officer McDonald's USA), Patricia Neil, and Award Winners.) I am delighted to be here with Justin, who is truly a great humanitarian and one of our strongest advocates for equal rights and equal opportunity for all Americans -- especially those with disabilities. His hard work and perseverance through adversity has benefitted all of us. You have to forgive me for rambling on about Justin, it's just that not only is he a friend, he is one the founding fathers of the Americans with Disabilities Act -- one of the most important pieces of legislation to ever reach Capitol Hill. As I said almost two years ago, it is time -- past time -- that people with disabilities are included in the mainstream of American life. As members of a community who are actively involved in helping disabled Americans join the workforce, I don't have to tell you that we face many difficulties. More than two thirds of our fellow citizens with disabilities of working age are unemployed. That is intolerable. Much of that unemployment stems from a lack of opportunity. ADA will form the foundation for policies and programs that can create 2 opportunities for Americans with disabilities to find and hold jobs, and to enjoy the income and satisfaction that productive participation in society brings to all of us. No longer can we allow ignorance or prejudice to deny opportunities to millions of Americans with disabilities. We recognize your right to equal opportunity. We need your abilities and skills. We welcome you -- the disabled -- into the mainstream of American life, because it is your life as well as ours. Every American should be able to join the workforce to the fullest extent of their abilities. And I am hopeful that the House of Representatives will take action soon on the ADA, just as their counterparts in the Senate did last September. I look forward to signing a bill that will address the needs of our disabled citizens. Disabled Americans have waited long enough for equality. This morning, I have the pleasure of sharing the stage with some truly exemplary Americans. I wish I had time to introduce each of them because their efforts are certainly outstanding. There is, however, one individual who deserves special mention. His name is David Schwartzkopf. As you saw in the video, David has overcome some extremely tough obstacles -- cerebral palsy, legal blindness, early misdiagnosis -- to become "a completely mainstreamed professional in a high-technology industry." Not content to merely be successful in his professional career, David is out in society doing all he can to help other disabled 3 Americans over some big hurdles. His inventions have helped visually impaired people enter the workforce; his speeches have inspired management to re-think their hiring practices; and his consulting is helping to bring about equal opportunities. David gives meaning to the words dignity and independence. So it is with great pleasure that I present you with the President's Trophy proclaiming you the 1990 Disabled American of the Year. Congratulations. # # # THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON April 30, 1990 MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON FROM: ROGER PORTER RBP SUBJECT: Presidential Remarks: President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities As you requested, I have reviewed the draft of the President's remarks to the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities and have only one comment. The sentence that reads, "I look forward to signing the Americans with Disabilities Act" (page 2, paragraph 2) may need to be clarified as a result of our ongoing negotiations in anticipation of the bill's markup tomorrow. CC: James W. Cicconi $8.80 MARE 06 Document No. 136492 WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM DATE: 04/27/90 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 3:00 p.m. 04/30 SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES (04/25 draft one) ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER DARMAN ROGICH BATES UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS - CICCONI PINKERTON DEMAREST R WINSTON FITZWATER GRAY HAGIN REMARKS: Please provide any comments/recommendations directly to Chriss Winston Thanks. by 3:00 p.m. on Monday, 04/30, with a copy to my office. RESPONSE: James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 Martin April 26, 1990 Draft One 1990 APR 27 PM 5: 13 Title: Disa PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES WASHINGTON HILTON / WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1990 10:15 A.M. ((ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS -- Justin Dart, Award Winners, and Patricia Neal) ) I am delighted to be here with Justin, who is truly a great humanitarian and one of our strongest advocates for equal rights and equal opportunity for all Americans -- especially those with disabilities. His hard work and perseverance through adversity has benefitted all of us. You have to forgive me for rambling on about Justin, it's just that not only is he a friend, he is one the founding fathers of the Americans with Disabilities Act -- one of the most important pieces of legislation to ever reach Capitol Hill. As I said almost two years ago, it is time -- past time -- that people with disabilities are included in the mainstream of American life. As members of a community who are actively involved in employment of the disabled issues, I don't have to tell you that we face many difficulties. More than two thirds of our fellow citizens with disabilities of working age are unemployed. That is intolerable. Much of that unemployment stems from a lack of opportunity. ADA will form the foundation for policies and programs that can create opportunities for Americans with disabilities to find and hold jobs, and to enjoy 2 the income and satisfaction that productive participation in society brings to all of us. No longer can we allow ignorance or prejudice to deny opportunities to millions of Americans with disabilities. We recognize your right to equal opportunity. We need your abilities and skills. We welcome you -- the disabled -- into the mainstream of American life, because it is your life as well as ours. Every American should be able to join the workforce to the fullest extent of their abilities. Total access to society as well as personal and economic independence for the disabled is an important goal of this Administration. And I am hopeful that the House of Representatives will take action soon on the ADA, just as their counterparts in the Senate did last September. I look forward to signing the Americans with Disabilities Act. Disabled Americans have waited long enough for equality. This morning, I have the pleasure of sharing the stage with some truly exemplary Americans. I wish I had to time to introduce each of them because their efforts are certainly outstanding. However, there is one individual who deserves special mention. His name is David Schwartzkopf. As you saw in the video, David has overcome some extremely tough obstacles -- cerebral palsy, legal blindness, early misdiagnosis -- to become "a completely mainstreamed professional in a high-technology industry." Not content to merely be successful in his professional career, David is out in society doing all he can to 3 help other disabled Americans over some big hurdles. His inventions have helped visually impaired people enter the workforce; his speeches have inspired management to re-think their hiring practices; and his consulting is helping to bring about equal opportunities. David gives meaning to the words dignity and independence. So it is with great pleasure that I present you with the President's Trophy proclaiming you the 1990 Disabled American of the Year. Congratulations. # # #