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Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Signing Ceremony 7/26/90 [OA 5376] [2]
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Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Signing Ceremony 7/26/90 [OA 5376] [2]
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13537-007
Folder Title:
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Signing Ceremony 7/26/90 [OA 5376] [2]
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1
Document No. 159433
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
90 JUL 19 P2: 10
DATE: 7/18/90
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 12:00 NOON 7/23/90
SUBJECT: Presidential Remarks: Signing of the ADA Bill
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
CARD
UNTERMEYER
CICCONI
Rogers
DEMAREST
Winston
FITZWATER
Pinkerton
GRAY
HAGIN
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston no later than 12:00 NOON, MONDAY, JULY 23, 1990 with
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
&
200
no comment 50 5r Road the
SR
fu
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Garmey)
July 18, 1990 4:00 p.m.
ADABILL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SIGNING OF THE ADA BILL
SOUTH LAWN
JULY 26, 1990
Thank you. And welcome to every one of you out there in
this splendid tableau of hope spread across the South Lawn. III
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS]
Three weeks ago, we celebrated our nation's Independence
Day. Today, we're here to rejoice and be glad of another
Independence Day. One that is long overdue. One that is dawning
with a brilliant glow of promise -- a day on which doors too long
bolted, both physically and symbolically, are being thrown wide.
With today's signing of the landmark Americans with
Disabilities Act, the disabled population of our country is now
free to pass through these once closed doors into a bright new
era of equality, independence, and freedom. 111
As I look around at all these joyous faces, I remember
clearly how many years of dedicated commitment have gone into
making this historic act a reality. It has been the work of a
true coalition. A strong, inspiring coalition of people who have
shared both a dream and the passionate determination to make that
dream a reality.
And it has been a coalition in the finest American spirit:
a joining of Democrats and Republicans; of the legislative and
executive branches; of federal and state agencies; of public
2
officials and private citizens; of people with disabilities and
without.
This historic ADA bill is the world's first declaration of
equality for people with disabilities. Its passage has made the
United States the international leader on this human rights
issue. This exciting accomplishment is more than a point of
light: it is a torchlight to the world. Already, several other
countries, including Sweden, Japan and the U.S.S.R., have
announced that they will introduce similar legislation in their
own governments. III
And it's all due to what our courageous pioneers wrote in
the Declaration of Independence: "We hold these Truths to be
self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are
endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights. "
These brilliant words have been our guide for more than two
centuries as we have labored to form our more perfect union.
But, tragically, there have been those for whom the blessings of
these truths have not been a reality. The Civil Rights Act of
1964 courageously took a bold step towards righting that wrong.
But the stark fact remained that disabled people were still
victims of segregation and discrimination. This was intolerable.
80 today's legislation finally guarantees that, under the law, no
American will ever again be deprived of their basic guarantee of
life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. III
This Act is powerful in its simplicity. It will ensure that
people with disabilities are given the basic guarantees for which
3
they have so long strived: independence, freedom of choice,
control of their lives, and the opportunity to blend fully and
equally into the rich mosaic of the American mainstream. 111
Legally, it will endow our disabled community with a
powerful expansion of protections and basic civil rights.
Specifically, it will guarantee fair and just access to the
fruits of American life which we all must enjoy: not only
broadened employment opportunities; but also meaningful access to
all aspects of society -- public accommodations; transit systems;
and communications networks.
It will enrich the quality of life of the nearly 43 million
Americans whose physical or mental disabilities limit their
activities. That's 18% of our population -- reaching across all
lines: age, race, faith, gender and economics. 11
The ADA bill is designed for those who had visions of the
stars but could not reach for them. It will help raise toward
their goal arms which could not move. It will cradle and steady
bodies which held hopes but no strength. It will light eyes
whose only sight had been inward; and support legs as they take
their first symbolic steps toward the future.
It will ease what the deaf-blind poet Robert Smithdas, the
American Poetry Society's Poet of the Year, calls "the silent
fog" of isolation.
And it will ensure that disabled Americans become full
partners in the daily challenges and opportunities of our
American society. III
4
This Act is a dramatic renewal not only for those with
disabilities, but for all Americans. Today I reach out to
everyone. For this Act to succeed, we must all cooperate.
Together, we must remove the physical barriers we have created,
and the social barriers we have accepted.
This legislation empowers those who are disabled. But it
also challenges those of us unrestricted by physical or mental
disabilities. It challenges our nation to work together to
create a truly mainstreamed society. There are those who need
our help. We must give it gladly, for this will never be a truly
prosperous nation until all within it prosper. 11
This is not legislation designed for a few. It is a call to
fairness, equality and respect from every American to every other
American. It is an affirmation that every life in our splendid
nation is equal. It is an affirmation that every life is worth
saving, worth enhancing, worth living. III
We are, with this act, guaranteeing our diversity, our
compassion, our understanding, and our strength as a nation. We
must each of us strive to fulfill the spirit as well as the word
of this law.
After all, disabled Americans are the only minority group of
which any of us can become a member, at any moment in our lives.
With the birth of a child. In an accident driving home from
work. In a fall while painting the house. Through the aging
process. or during a sudden illness. 111
5
I want to say a special word to our friends in the business
community. You have in your hands the key to the success of this
Act: for you can unlock a splendid resource of untapped human
potential which, when freed, will enrich us all.
You have called for new sources of workers. Well, the
majority of our fellow citizens with disabilities are unemployed,
and they can -- and want to -- work. This is a tremendous pool
of people who will bring to jobs their diversity, loyalty, proven
low turnover rate and only one request: the chance to prove
themselves. 11
It costs almost $200 billion annually to support disabled
Americans -- in effect, to keep them dependent. When given the
opportunity to be independent, they will move proudly into the
economic mainstream of American life. 11
My friends, our problems are large, but our unified heart is
larger. Our challenges are great, but our will is greater. 111
In our America, the most generous, optimistic nation on the
face of the earth, we must not -- and will not -- rest until
every man and woman with a dream has the means to achieve it. III
Today, America welcomes into the mainstream of life our
disabled fellow citizens. We embrace you not for your
disabilities but for your abilities; not for your differences but
for our similarities; not for your past pain but for your future
dreams. III
Last year, we celebrated the victory of international
freedom. Even the able-bodied could not scale the Berlin Wall to
6
gain the elusive promise of independence that lay just beyond.
And so, together, we rejoiced when that barrier fell.
And now I sign legislation which takes a sledgehammer to
another Wall: one which has, for too many generations, separated
disabled Americans from the freedom they could glimpse but could
not grasp.
And once again we rejoice as this barrier falls, proclaiming
together: We will not accept, we will not excuse, we will not
tolerate discrimination against anyone ever again. III
God bless you. On behalf of America, I now raise my pen to
sign this bill and say: let the shameful wall of exclusion
finally come tumbling down.
*****
7
ADA BILL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
So we give a special welcome to those for whom today is the
celebration of dreams finally realized. It's great to see so
many friends from Congress, particularly those who have been
forceful leaders in this, one of the most important pieces of
legislation ever to reach Capitol Hill -- Senators Dole,
Durenberger, Harkin, Hatch, Jeffords, Kennedy, McCain, Simon, and
former Senator Weicker. 11 On the House side, Congressmen
Anderson, Bartlett, Brooks, Dingell, Fish, Hawkins, Hoyer,
Mineta, Owens, and former Congressman Coelho.
Thanks are due for the determined work of Attorney General
Dick Thornburgh and his wife Ginnie; and of Surgeon General
Antonia Novello; HHS Secretary Louis Sullivan; and Transportation
Secretary Samuel Skinner. Also devoted to this issue since the
beginning were my friends Justin Dart, Lex Frieden, Boyden Gray
and Bill Roper.
And let's salute the strong advocacy work of Patrisha
Wright, Bob Silverstein, and Sandra Parrino and her dedicated
staff at the National Council on Disability. III
I'd also like to pay special tribute to the seven senior
members of my Administration who have disabilities: Nell Carney,
Allen Clark, Robert Davnilia, Michael Deland, John Farley, Evan
Kemp and Gordon Mansfield.
And we all stand in loving admiration of the inspiration
given to all by the heroic Jim Brady. 11
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
FACSIMILE TRANSMITTAL SHEET
NUMBER OF PAGES INCLUDING COVER
3
DATE 7-19-90-
TO
David Demarest
FAX NUMBER 714 750 3455
OFFICE NUMBER
COMMENTS
FROM
Chriss Winston
OFFICE NUMBER 122
5809
Document No. 59433
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 7/18/90
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 12:00 NOON 7/23/90
SUBJECT: Presidential Remarks: Signing of the ADA Bill
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
CARD
UNTERMEYER
CICCONI
Rogers
>
DEMAREST
Winston
FITZWATER
Pinkerton
\
GRAY
HAGIN
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston no later than 12:00 NOON, MONDAY, JULY 23, 1990 with
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
July 19, 1990
TO: CHRISS WINSTON
NSC clears the subject remarks with suggestions as noted.
W. cicconi 61 06
Brent $cowcroft
James W. Cicconi
CC: James
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Garmey)
July 18, 1990 4:00 p.m.
ADABILL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SIGNING OF THE ADA BILL
SOUTH LAWN
JULY 26, 1990
Thank you. And welcome to every one of you out there in
this splendid tableau of hope spread across the South Lawn. III
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS]
Three weeks ago, we celebrated our nation's Independence
Day. Today, we're here to rejoice and be glad of another
Independence Day. One that is long overdue. One that is dawning
with a brilliant glow of promise -- a day on which doors too long
bolted, both physically and symbolically, are being thrown wide.
with today's signing of the landmark Americans with
Disabilities Act, the disabled population of our country is now
free to pass through these once closed doors into a bright new
era of equality, independence, and freedom. III
As I look around at all these joyous faces, I remember
clearly how many years of dedicated commitment have gone into
making this historic act a reality. It has been the work of a
true coalition. A strong, inspiring coalition of people who have
shared both a dream and the passionate determination to make that
dream a reality.
And it has been a coalition in the finest American spirit:
a joining of Democrats and Republicans; of the legislative and
executive branches; of federal and state agencies; of public
2
officials and private citizens; of people with disabilities and
without.
This historic ADA bill is the world's first declaration of
equality for people with disabilities. Its passage has made the
United States the international leader on this human rights
issue. This exciting accomplishment is more than a point of
light: it is a torchlight to the world. Already, several other
countries, including Sweden, Japan and the U.S.S.R., have
announced that they will introduce similar legislation in their
own governments. III
And it's all due to what our courageous pioneers wrote in
the Declaration of Independence: "We hold these Truths to be
self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are
endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights. "
These brilliant words have been our guide for more than two
centuries as we have labored to form our more perfect union.
But, tragically, there have been those for whom the blessings of
these truths have not been a reality. The Civil Rights Act of
1964 courageously took a bold step towards righting that wrong.
But the stark fact remained that disabled people were still
victims of segregation and discrimination. This was intolerable.
So today's legislation finally guarantees that, under the law, no
American will ever again be deprived of their basic guarantee of
life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. 111
This Act is powerful in its simplicity. It will ensure that
people with disabilities are given the basic guarantees for which
3
they have so long strived: independence, freedom of choice,
control of their lives, and the opportunity to blend fully and Mixed
equally into the rich mosaic of the American mainstream.
metaphor
Legally, it will endow our disabled community with a
powerful expansion of protections and basic civil rights.
Specifically, it will guarantee fair and just access to the
fruits of American life which we all must enjoy: not only
broadened employment opportunities; but also meaningful access to
all aspects of society -- public accommodations; transit systems;
and communications networks.
It will enrich the quality of life of the nearly 43 million
Americans whose physical or mental disabilities limit their
activities. That's 18% of our population -- reaching across all
lines: age, race, faith, gender and economics. 11
The ADA bill is designed for those who had visions of the
stars but could not reach for them. It will help raise toward
their goal arms which could not move. It will cradle and steady
bodies which held hopes but no strength. It will light eyes
whose only sight had been inward; and support legs as they take
their first symbolic steps toward the future.
It will ease what the deaf-blind poet Robert Smithdas, the
American Poetry Society's Poet of the Year, calls "the silent
fog" of isolation.
And it will ensure that disabled Americans become full
partners in the daily challenges and opportunities of our
American society. III
4
This Act is a dramatic renewal not only for those with
disabilities, but for all Americans. Today I reach out to
everyone. For this Act to succeed, we must all cooperate.
Together, we must remove the physical barriers we have created,
and the social barriers we have accepted.
This legislation empowers those who are disabled. But it
also challenges those of us unrestricted by physical or mental
disabilities. It challenges our nation to work together to
7
create a truly mainstreamed society. There are those who need
Bad
our help. We must give it gladly, for this will never be a truly
phrase
prosperous nation until all within it prosper. 11
This is not legislation designed for a few. It is a call to
fairness, equality and respect from every American to every other
American. It is an affirmation that every life in our splendid
nation is equal. It is an affirmation that every life is worth
saving, worth enhancing, worth living. 111
We are, with this act, guaranteeing our diversity, our
compassion, our understanding, and our strength as a nation. We
must each of us strive to fulfill the spirit as well as the word
of this law. 11
After all, disabled Americans are the only minority group of
which any of us can become a member, at any moment in our lives.
With the birth of a child. In an accident driving home from
work. In a fall while painting the house. Through the aging
process. Or during a sudden illness. III
5
I want to say a special word to our friends in the business
community. You have in your hands the key to the success of this
Act: for you can unlock a splendid resource of untapped human
potential which, when freed, will enrich us all.
You have called for new sources of workers. Well, the
majority of our fellow citizens with disabilities are unemployed,
and they can -- and want to -- work. This is a tremendous pool
of people who will bring to jobs their diversity, loyalty, proven
low turnover rate and only one request: the chance to prove
themselves. 11
It costs almost $200 billion annually to support disabled
Americans -- in effect, to keep them dependent. When given the
opportunity to be independent, they will move proudly into the
economic mainstream of American life. 11
My friends, our problems are large, but our unified heart is
larger. Our challenges are great, but our will is greater. 111
In our America, the most generous, optimistic nation on the
face of the earth, we must not -- and will not -- rest until
every man and woman with a dream has the means to achieve it. III
Today, America welcomes into the mainstream of life our
disabled fellow citizens. We embrace you not for your
disabilities but for your abilities; not for your differences but
for our similarities; not for your past pain but for your future
dreams. III
Last year, we celebrated the victory of international
freedom. Even the able-bodied could not scale the Berlin Wall to
6
gain the elusive promise of independence that lay just beyond.
And so, together, we rejoiced when that barrier fell.
And now I sign legislation which takes a sledgehammer to
another Wall: one which has, for too many generations, separated
disabled Americans from the freedom they could glimpse but could
not grasp.
And once again we rejoice as this barrier falls, proclaiming
together: We will not accept, we will not excuse, we will not
tolerate discrimination against anyone ever again. 111
God bless you. On behalf of America, I now raise my pen to
sign this bill and say: let the shameful wall of exclusion
finally come tumbling down.
*****
Document No. squal
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
23 A10: 06
DATE: 7/18/90
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 12:00 NOON 7/23/90
SUBJECT: Presidential Remarks: Signing of the ADA Bill
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
CARD
UNTERMEYER
CICCONI
Rogers
DEMAREST
Winston
FITZWATER
Rnkerton
GRAY
HAGIN
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston no later than 12:00 NOON, MONDAY, JULY 23, 1990 with
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Chriss / Beth-
Pls. All fact question on P. 2. d thought the
Caradian charter of Rights and Freedoms (a at least provioual
legislation in antairi) addressed disabled people's
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
right
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
Thanks,
John Dardne 7/23
(Hinchliffe/Garmey)
July 18, 1990 4:00 p.m.
ADABILL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SIGNING OF THE ADA BILL
SOUTH LAWN
JULY 26, 1990
Thank you. And welcome to every one of you out there in
this splendid tableau of hope spread across the South Lawn. III
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS]
Three weeks ago, we celebrated our nation's Independence
Day. Today, we're here to rejoice and be glad of another
Independence Day. One that is long overdue. One that is dawning
with a brilliant glow of promise -- a day on which doors too long
bolted, both physically and symbolically, are being thrown wide.
with today's signing of the landmark Americans with
Disabilities Act, the disabled population of our country is now
free to pass through these once closed doors into a bright new
era of equality, independence, and freedom. 111
As I look around at all these joyous faces, I remember
clearly how many years of dedicated commitment have gone into
making this historic act a reality. It has been the work of a
true coalition. A strong, inspiring coalition of people who have
shared both a dream and the passionate determination to make that
dream a reality.
And it has been a coalition in the finest American spirit:
a joining of Democrats and Republicans; of the legislative and
executive branches; of federal and state agencies; of public
2
officials and private citizens; of people with disabilities and
without.
?
This historic ADA bill is the world's first declaration of
equality for people with disabilities. Its passage has made the
United States the international leader on this human rights
issue. This exciting accomplishment is more than a point of
light: it is a torchlight to the world. Already, several other
countries, including Sweden, Japan and the U.S.S.R., have
announced that they will introduce similar legislation in their
own governments. III
And it's all due to what our courageous pioneers wrote in
the Declaration of Independence: "We hold these Truths to be
self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are
endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights.
These brilliant words have been our guide for more than two
centuries as we have labored to form our more perfect union.
But, tragically, there have been those for whom the blessings of
these truths have not been a reality. The Civil Rights Act of
1964 courageously took a bold step towards righting that wrong.
But the stark fact remained that disabled people were still
victims of segregation and discrimination. This was intolerable.
So today's legislation finally guarantees that, under the law, no
American will ever again be deprived of their basic guarantee of
life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. IH
This Act is powerful in its simplicity. It will ensure that
people with disabilities are given the basic guarantees for which
3
they have so long strived: independence, freedom of choice,
control of their lives, and the opportunity to blend fully and
equally into the rich mosaic of the American mainstream. 111
Legally, it will endow our disabled community with a
powerful expansion of protections and basic civil rights.
Specifically, it will guarantee fair and just access to the
fruits of American life which we all must enjoy: not only
broadened employment opportunities; but also meaningful access to
all aspects of society -- public accommodations; transit systems;
and communications networks.
It will enrich the quality of life of the nearly 43 million
Americans whose physical or mental disabilities limit their
activities. That's 18% of our population -- reaching across all
lines: age, race, faith, gender and economics. 11
The ADA bill is designed for those who had visions of the
stars but could not reach for them. It will help raise toward
their goal arms which could not move. It will cradle and steady
bodies which held hopes but no strength. It will light eyes
whose only sight had been inward; and support legs as they take
their first symbolic steps toward the future.
It will ease what the deaf-blind poet Robert Smithdas, the
American Poetry Society's Poet of the Year, calls "the silent
fog" of isolation.
And it will ensure that disabled Americans become full
partners in the daily challenges and opportunities of our
American society. 111
4
This Act is a dramatic renewal not only for those with
disabilities, but for all Americans. Today I reach out to
everyone. For this Act to succeed, we must all cooperate.
Together, we must remove the physical barriers we have created,
and the social barriers we have accepted.
This legislation empowers those who are disabled. But it
also challenges those of us unrestricted by physical or mental
disabilities. It challenges our nation to work together to
create a truly mainstreamed society. There are those who need
our help. We must give it gladly, for this will never be a truly
prosperous nation until all within it prosper. 11
This is not legislation designed for a few. It is a call to
fairness, equality and respect from every American to every other
American. It is an affirmation that every life in our splendid
nation is equal. It is an affirmation that every life is worth
saving, worth enhancing, worth living. 111
We are, with this act, guaranteeing our diversity, our
compassion, our understanding, and our strength as a nation. We
must each of us strive to fulfill the spirit as well as the word
of this law. 11
After all, disabled Americans are the only minority group of
which any of us can become a member, at any moment in our lives.
With the birth of a child. In an accident driving home from
work. In a fall while painting the house. Through the aging
process. or during a sudden illness. 111
5
I want to say a special word to our friends in the business
community. You have in your hands the key to the success of this
Act: for you can unlock a splendid resource of untapped human
potential which, when freed, will enrich us all.
You have called for new sources of workers. Well, the
majority of our fellow citizens with disabilities are unemployed,
and they can -- and want to -- work. This is a tremendous pool
of people who will bring to jobs their diversity, loyalty, proven
low turnover rate and only one request: the chance to prove
themselves. 11
It costs almost $200 billion annually to support disabled
Americans -- in effect, to keep them dependent. When given the
opportunity to be independent, they will move proudly into the
economic mainstream of American life. 11
My friends, our problems are large, but our unified heart is
larger. Our challenges are great, but our will is greater. III
In our America, the most generous, optimistic nation on the
face of the earth, we must not -- and will not -- rest until
every man and woman with a dream has the means to achieve it. III
Today, America welcomes into the mainstream of life our
disabled fellow citizens. We embrace you not for your
disabilities but for your abilities; not for your differences but
for our similarities; not for your past pain but for your future
dreams. III
Last year, we celebrated the victory of international
freedom. Even the able-bodied could not scale the Berlin Wall to
6
gain the elusive promise of independence that lay just beyond.
And so, together, we rejoiced when that barrier fell.
And now I sign legislation which takes a sledgehammer to
another Wall: one which has, for too many generations, separated
disabled Americans from the freedom they could glimpse but could
not grasp.
And once again we rejoice as this barrier falls, proclaiming
together: We will not accept, we will not excuse, we will not
tolerate discrimination against anyone ever again. 111
God bless you. On behalf of America, I now raise my pen to
sign this bill and say: let the shameful wall of exclusion
finally come tumbling down.
*****
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
; 7-23-90 :12:24PM ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
2024566218:# 1
Document No. 159433
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 7/18/90
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 12:00 NOON 7/23/90
SUBJECT: Presidential Remarks: Signing of the ADA Bill
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
CARD
UNTERMEYER
CICCONI
Rogers
DEMAREST
Winston
FITZWATER
Binkerton
GRAY
HAGIN
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston no later than 12:00 NOON, MONDAY, JULY 23, 1990 with
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Jack - your comments 21 :21d if 23 any.
Tux,
James W. Cicconi
Bo.
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
SENT BY:The TICKET CENTER
; 7-23-90 :12:25PM ; LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS-
2024566218:# 2
(Hinchliffe/Garmey)
July 18, 1990 4:00 p.m.
ADABILL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SIGNING OF THE ADA BILL
SOUTH LAWN
BE
she 164321 To Riforts at
JULY 26, 1990
Thank you. And welcome to every one of you out there in
this splendid tableau of hope spread across the South Lawn. 111
The
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS]
Sizvy
Three weeks ago, we celebrated our nation's Independence
Day. Today, we're here to rejoice and be glad of another
Independence Day. One that is long overdue. One that is dawning
with a brilliant glow of promise -- a day on which doors. too long
bolted, both physically and symbolically, are being thrown wide.
with today's signing of the landmark Americans with
Disabilities Act, the disabled population of our country is now
free to pass through these once closed doors into a bright new
era of equality, independence, and freedom. 111
As I look around at all these joyous faces, I remember
civil
clearly how many years of dedicated commitment have gone into
rights
making this historic act a reality. It has been the work of a
true coalition. A strong, inspiring coalition of people who have
shared both a dream and the passionate determination to make that
dream a reality.
And it has been a coalition in the finest American spirit:
a joining of Democrats and Republicans; of the legislative and
executive branches; of federal and state agencies; of public
Document No. 159433
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 7/18/90
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 12:00 NOON 7/23/90
SUBJECT: Presidential Remarks: Signing of the ADA Bill
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
CARD
UNTERMEYER
CICCONI
Rogers
DEMAREST
Winston
FITZWATER
Rinkerton
GRAY
HAGIN
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston no later than 12:00 NOON, MONDAY, JULY 23, 1990 with
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
see Comments. Thanks.
7-23-90
90 JUL 23 P12:18
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
( Energy, for sec. Wathins, still
Ext. 2702
has not tuned in anythi although you 'll see what
than did evmen to me verballs. Mank Nollen
(Hinchliffe/Garmey)
July 18, 1990 4:00 p.m.
ADABILL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SIGNING OF THE ADA BILL
SOUTH LAWN
JULY 26, 1990
Thank you. And welcome to every one of you out there in
this splendid tableau of hope spread across the South Lawn. III
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS]
Three weeks ago, we celebrated our nation's Independence
Day. Today, we're here to rejoice and be glad of another
Independence Day. One that is long overdue. One that is dawning
with a brilliant glow of promise -- a day on which doors too long
bolted, both physically and symbolically, are being thrown wide. open.
(HHS)
with today's signing of the landmark Americans with
Amer. with disabilities are now free
Disabilities Act, the' disabled population of country is now
(DOJ
&
to pass through these once closed doors into a bright new
HHS)
era of equality, independence, and freedom. 111
As I look around at all these joyous faces, I remember
clearly how many years of dedicated commitment have gone into
making this historic act a reality. It has been the work of a
true coalition. A strong, inspiring coalition of people who have
shared both a dream and the passionate determination to make that
dream a reality.
And it has been a coalition in the finest American spirit:
a joining of Democrats and Republicans; of the legislative and
executive branches; of federal and state agencies; of public
2
officials and private citizens; of people with disabilities and
without.
This historic ADA bill is the world's first declaration of
equality for people with disabilities. Its passage has made the
United States the international leader on this human rights
issue. This exciting accomplishment is more than a point of
light: it is a torchlight to the world. Already, several other
countries, including Sweden, Japan and the U.S.S.R., have
announced that they will introduce similar legislation in their
own governments. III
And it's all due to what our courageous pioneers wrote in
the Declaration of Independence: "We hold these Truths to be
self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are
endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights. "
These brilliant words have been our guide for more than two
centuries as we have labored to form our more perfect union.
But, tragically, there have been those for whom the blessings of
full
V(OCA)
these truths have not been a/reality. The Civil Rights Act of
1964 courageously took a bold step towards righting that wrong.
with uithdisabilities
But the stark fact remained that disabled people^were still
(DOJ.
+
victims of segregation and discrimination. This was intolerable.
HHS)
So today's legislation finally guarantees that, under the law, no
American will ever again be deprived of their basic guarantee of
life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. III
This Act is powerful in its simplicity. It will ensure that
people with disabilities are given the basic guarantees for which
3
they have so long strived: independence, freedom of choice,
control of their lives, and the opportunity to blend fully and
equally into the rich mosaic of the American mainstream. 111
of citizens withdisabilities
Legally, it will endow our disabled community^with a
(HHS)
powerful expansion of protections and basic civil rights.
Specifically, it will guarantee fair and just access to the
fruits of American life which we all must enjoy: not only
broadened employment opportunities; but also meaningful access to
all aspects of society -- public accommodations; transit systems;
and communications networks.
It will enrich the quality of life of the nearly 43 million
with
Americans whose physical or mental disabilities, limit their
(DOJ)
activities. That's 18% of our population -- reaching across all
lines: age, race, faith, gender and economics. 11
The ADA bill is designed for those who had visions of the
stars but could not reach for them. It will help raise toward
their goal arms which could not move. It will cradle and steady
bodies which held hopes but no strength. It will light eyes
(DOJ)
whose only sight had been inward; and support legs as they take
delete
their first symbolic steps toward the future
It will ease what the deaf-blind poet Robert Smithdas, the
American Poetry Society's Poet of the Year, calls "the silent
fog" of isolation.
with disabilities
And it will ensure that disabled Americans become full
partners in the daily challenges and opportunities of our
American society. III
Justice recommends deleting those 2 paragraphs. They
realize they are well -intended but feels that the people ul
disabilitis will view it as pitz which is something they do
not want to hear the President express.
4
citizens
This Act is a dramatic renewal not only for those/with
(HHS)
disabilities, but for all Americans. Today I reach out to
everyone. For this Act to succeed, we must all cooperate.
Together, we must remove the physical barriers we have created,
and the social barriers we have accepted.
V(HHS)
people
This legislation empowers those^who are disabled. But it
delete
(POJ)
also challenges those of us unrestricted by physical or mental
disabilities.
It challenges our nation to work together to
create a truly mainstreamed society. There are those who need
previous
pase.
our help We must give it gladly, for this will never be a truly
prosperous nation until all within it prosper
(forteldes)
This is not legislation designed for a few. It is a call to
each
fairness, equality and respect from every American to every other
(HHS)
American. It is an affirmation that every life in our splendid
nation is equal. It is an affirmation that every life is worth
(DOJ)
saving, worth enhancing, worth living. III
what hear- they
Again (005) not
We are, with this act, guaranteeing our diversity, our
pittying tone.
want to
compassion, our understanding, and our strength as a nation. We
must each of us strive to fulfill the spirit as well as the word
of this law. 11
with disabilities
After all, disabled Americans/are the only minority group) of
CHITS
DOJ)
which any of us can become a member, at any moment in our lives.
Soint The
With the birth of a child. In an accident driving home from
work. In a fall while painting the house. Through the aging
taken best
process. or during a sudden illness. III
by the
should we classify
V(DOJ)
them as a
eyed.
minority group
5
I want to say a special word to our friends in the business
community. You have in your hands the key to the success of this
Act: for you can unlock a splendid resource of untapped human
potential which, when freed, will enrich us all.
You have called for new sources of workers. Well, the
majority of our fellow citizens with disabilities are unemployed,
and they can -- and want to -- work. This is a tremendous pool
of people who will bring to jobs their diversity, loyalty, proven
((HHS)
(HHS) low turnover rate and only one request: the chance to prove
themselves. 11
It costs almost $200 billion annually to support disabled
with disabilities
CDOJ
Americans / - in effect, to keep them dependent. When given the
HAS) opportunity to be independent, they will move proudly into the
economic mainstream of American life. 11
My friends, our problems are large, but our unified heart is
larger. Our challenges are great, but our will is greater. III
In our America, the most generous, optimistic nation on the
face of the earth, we must not -- and will not -- rest until
every man and woman with a dream has the means to achieve it.
all
Today, America welcomes into the mainstream of life/our (MHS+POJ)
with disabilities.
disabled fellow citizens/ We embrace you not for your
disabilities but for your abilities; not for your differences but
for Vour similarities; not for your past pain but for your future
dreams. III
Last year, we celebrated the victory of international
Before last year,
freedom. Even the able bodied could not scale the Berlin Wall to
CDOJ
+
Hits) Did not like
the tone
was a barrier to
6
(005)
gain the elusive promise of independence that lay just beyond.
And so, together, we rejoiced when that barrier fell.
And now I sign legislation which takes a sledgehammer to
another Wall: one which has, for too many generations, separated
Americans with disabilities
(DOJ)
disabled Americans from the freedom they could glimpse but could
not grasp.
And once again we rejoice as this barrier falls, proclaiming
together: We will not accept, we will not excuse, we will not
tolerate discrimination against anyone ever again. 111
God bless you. On behalf of America, I now raise my pen to
sign this bill and say: let the shameful wall of exclusion
finally come tumbling down.
Please note:
Secretary Wathins as well as HNS & DOJ feel
it is very important to address
them ml the conect tuminology ("amer.
ul disabilitis).
The A.G. reviewed this for Justice made
the DOJ changes I have marked. my
have worked closely my these groups
d feel their changesare
important.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
JULY 23, 1990
MEMORANDUM
FOR: Chriss Winston
FROM: Edward Garmey
SUBJECT: ADA comments
Enclosed are a few comments for ADA. Throughout the text I've
circled prepositions where it might be more forceful to simply
refer back to "ADA," but Beth may have changed some of these
herself.
There are no quotations in the remarks. I've noted two insert
suggestions, where the following presidential quotations might be
effective:
A.
understanding, as Theodore Roosevelt put it, that
Americanism means not only an equality of rights, but
also an equality of duty, and of obligation
B.
still what Lincoln called the "last best hope on
Earth "
I hope everything is OK with Ian.
Ted
7-23-90 Egg. Comments
(Hinchliffe/Garmey)
July 18, 1990 4:00 p.m.
ADABILL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SIGNING OF THE ADA BILL
SOUTH LAWN
JULY 26, 1990
Thank you. And welcome to every one of you out there in
this splendid diversity tableau (of hope spread across the South Lawn. 111
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS]
Three weeks ago, we celebrated our nation's Independence
Day. Today, we're here to rejoice and be glad of another
Independence Day. One that is long overdue. One that is dawning
with a brilliant glow of promise -- a day on which doors too long
clased
open
bolted, both physically and symbolically, are being thrown wideA
With today's signing of the landmark Americans with
Disabilities Act, the disabled population of our country is now
free to pass through these once closed doors into a bright new
era of equality, independence, and freedom. III
As I look around at all these joyous faces, I remember
clearly how many years of dedicated commitment have gone into
making this historic act a reality. It has been the work of a
true coalition. A strong, inspiring coalition of people who have
shared both a dream and the passionate determination to make that
dream a reality.
And it has been a coalition in the finest American spirit:
a joining of Democrats and Republicans; of the legislative and
executive branches; of federal and state agencies; of public
coalition
a
2
officials and private citizens; of people with disabilities ) and also
without.
The
Act
This historic ADA bill is the world's first declaration of
equality for people with disabilities. Its passage has made the
United States the international leader on this human rights
issue. This exciting accomplishment is more than a point of
light: it is a torchlight to the world. Already, several other
countries, including Sweden, Japan and the U.S.S.R., have
announced that they will introduce similar legislation in their
Continuing the tradition of
own governments. III
who
^ And it's all due to what our courageous pioneers/wrote in
that
the Declaration of Independence: "We hold these Truths to be
self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are
endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights.' "
simple
These brilliant words have been our guide for more than two
centuries as we have struggle labored to form our more perfect union.
But, tragically, there have been those for whom the blessings of
these truths have not been a reality. The Civil Rights Act of
1964 courageously took a bold step towards righting that wrong.
But the stark fact remained that disabled people were still
victims of segregation and discrimination. This was intolerable.
So today's legislation finally guarantees that, under the law
no
American will ever again be deprived of their basic guarantee of
life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. III
This Act is powerful in its simplicity. It will ensure that
people with disabilities are given the basic guarantees for which
Even ADA
has its limitations
)
3
they have so long strived: independence, freedom of choice,
control of their lives, and the opportunity to blend fully and
equally into the rich mosaic of the American mainstream. III
Legally, it will endow our disabled community with a
powerful expansion of protections and basic civil rights.
Specifically, it will guarantee fair and just access to the
fruits of American life which we all must enjoy: not only
broadened employment opportunities; but also meaningful access to
all aspects of society --- public accommodations; transit systems;
and communications networks.
It will enrich the quality of life of the nearly 43 million
Americans whose physical or mental disabilities limit their
activities. That's 18% of our population -- reaching across all
bonders
of
lines: age, race, faith, gender and economics. 11
n
'old
The ADA bill is designed for those who had visions of the
school'
stars but could not reach for them. It will help raise toward
that language disabled many
their goal arms which could not move. It will cradle and steady
people
bodies which held hopes but no strength. It will light eyes
find
whose only sight had been inward; and support legs as they take
insulting
their first symbolic steps toward the future.
It will ease what the deaf-blind poet Robert Smithdas, the
American Poetry Society's Poet of the Year, calls "the silent
fog" of isolation.
And it will ensure that disabled Americans become full
partners in the daily challenges and opportunities of our
American society. III
4
This Act is a dramatic renewal not only for those with
disabilities, but for all Americans. Today I reach out to
everyone. For this Act to succeed, we must all cooperate.
Together, we must remove the physical barriers we have created,
and the social barriers we have accepted.
This legislation empowers those who are disabled. But it
also challenges those of us unrestricted by physical or mental
disabilities. It challenges our nation to work together to
create a truly mainstreamed society. There are those who need
our help. We must give it gladly, for this will never be a truly
prosperous nation until all within it prosper.
11
The ADA A
but
This is not legislation designed for a few, It is a call to
fairness, equality and respect from every American to every other
American. It is an affirmation that every life in our splendid
nation is equal. It is an affirmation that every life is worth
saving, worth enhancing, worth living. III
We are, with this act, guaranteeing our diversity, our
compassion, our understanding, and our strength as a nation. We
must each of us strive to fulfill the spirit as well as the word
of this law.
After all, disabled Americans are the only minority group of
which any of us can become a member, at any moment in our lives.
With the birth of a child. In an accident driving home from
work. In a fall while painting the house. Through the aging
process. or during a sudden illness. III
5
I want to say a special word to our friends in the business
community. You have in your hands the key to the success of this
Act: for you can unlock a splendid resource of untapped human
potential which, when freed, will enrich us all.
You have called for new sources of workers. Well, the
majority of our fellow citizens with disabilities are unemployed,
and they can -- and want to -- work. This is a tremendous pool
of people who will bring to jobs their diversity, loyalty, proven
low turnover rate and only one request: the chance to prove
themselves.
It costs almost $200 billion annually to support disabled
Americans -- in effect, to keep them dependent. When given the
opportunity to be independent, they will move proudly into the
economic mainstream of American life. 11
My friends, our problems are large, but our unified heart is
larger. Our challenges are great, but our will is greater.
In our America the most generous, optimistic nation on the
face of the earth, we must not -- and will not -- rest until
every man and woman with a dream has the means to achieve it. 111
Today, America welcomes into the mainstream of life our
disabled fellow citizens. We embrace you not for your
disabilities but for your abilities; not for your differences but
for our similarities; not for your past pain but for your future
dreams. III
Last year, we celebrated the victory of international
freedom.
Even the able-bodied could not scale the Berlin Wall to
AWK. senten ce
6
gain the elusive promise of independence that lay just beyond. )
And so, together, we rejoiced when that barrier fell.
And now I sign legislation which takes a sledgehammer to
another Wall: one which has, for too many generations, separated
disabled Americans from the freedom they could glimpse but could
not grasp.
And once again we rejoice as this barrier falls, proclaiming
together: We will not accept, we will not excuse, we will not
tolerate discrimination against anyone ever again. 111
God bless you. On behalf of America, I now raise my pen to
sign this bill and say: let the shameful wall of exclusion
finally come tumbling down.
*
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON
!
DATE:
TO: chriss
FROM:
GEORGE COVINGTON
I/1=1
Meoye
disobilities
A REPORT TO THE VICE PRESIDENT
JOENT OF PLURIBUS THE DIVIED
LICE STATES PR
PARTICIPATION IN DISABILITY
ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS
JULY 1989 - JUNE 1990
GEORGE A. COVINGTON
OFFICE OF THE PRESS SECRETARY
A SUMMARY OF PARTICIPATION IN
DISABILITY ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS
In the past eighteen months, you:
Have met personally with more disabled persons than any VP in
history;
Became the first VP to appear on the cover of the Paralyzed
Veterans of America's (PVA) Magazine (five photos inside);
Became the first VP to visit an Independent Living Center (two
visits);
Became the first VP to be named honorary staff member of PVA;
Became the first VP to appear on the cover of the Blinded
Veterans Association magazine;
Became the first VP to be Honorary Chairman of PVA's annual
fund raiser on spinal cord injury research;
Became the first VP to have a staff member to work full time on
disability issues;
Became the first VP to appoint a liaison between his office and the
President's Committee on Employment of People With Disabilities
(PCEPD), the National Council on Disability, the Architectural and
Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (ATBCB), the
Interagency Committee on Computer Access for Disabled Federal
Employees, and the Howard University Research Center on
Minorities with Disabilities.
SUMMARY OF PHOTO OPS
West Wing and OEOB photo ops accounted for more than 90 column
inches of print coverage and more than 130 column inches of published
photos. This coverage resulted from only seven photo ops.
SITE VISITS
Print Media: All general media coverage resulted from the two
Independent Living Center site visits in San Diego and Cleveland.
Newspapers with a combined circulation of 1.78 million gave a total of 45.75
inches of print and 43.75 inches of photos to the coverage of these two
events.
Even without the L.A. Times (1.2 million circulation and 4.25 inches of
copy), the coverage was still respectable for such a small part of the day's
overall events.
T.V. Media: Television news coverage in San Diego made all three local
affiliates of the networks with a combined audience of more than 250,000.
TV crews were not permitted on the Cleveland site visit.
DISABILITY MEDIA COVERAGE
JULY 1989 - JUNE 1990
COL.IN.
COL.IN.
NAMES
CIRCULATION
(PRINT)
(PHOTOS)
GENERAL MEDIA
SAN DIEGO UNION
271,000
1.00
SAN DIEGO TRIBUNE
117,000
9.00
11.5
LOS ANGELES TIMES
1,125,000
4.25
EUCLID NEWS - HERALD
59,000
14.75
11.25
EUCLID SUN JOURNAL
208,000
16.75
21.00
TOTAL
1,780,000
45.75
43.75
DISABILITY MEDIA
BVA BULLETIN, 7/89
20,000
11.25
12.5
AFB NEWS, 8/89
10,000
15.75
5.25
WORKLIFE, WINTER 90
22,000
13.75
33.0
AWARE NEWS, SPRING 90
12,000
11.5
20.0
THE VOICE, 4/90
2,500
14.25
6.50
SPORTS AND SPOKES, 3/90
10,000
4.00
7.00
PARAPLEGIA NEWS, 4/90
25,000
10.25
53.25
SPORTS AND SPOKES, 6/90
10,000
7.75
3.75
PARAPLEGIA NEWS, 6/90
25,000
3.50
6.00
TOTAL
136,000
92.0
147.25
OTHER MEDIA
SAUDI ARABIA, 6/90
12.5
4.00
CAPSTONE, 6/90
7,000
2.0
6.50
TOTAL
14.5
10.5
GRAND TOTAL
182.5
201.5
MEDIA COVERAGE - SITE VISITS
JULY 1989 - JUNE 1990
COL. IN.
COL. IN.
SAN DIEGO SITE VISITS
CIRCULATION
(PRINT)
(PHOTOS)
SAN DIEGO UNION
271,000
1.00
SAN DIEGO TRIBUNE
117,000
9.00
11.5
LOS ANGELES TIMES
1,125,000
4.25
TOTAL
1,513,000
14.25
11.5
CLEVELAND SITE VISITS
EUCLID NEWS - HERALD
59,000
14.75
11.25
EUCLID SUN JOURNAL
208,000
16.75
21.00
TOTAL
267,000
31.50
32.25
OEOB/WW PHOTO OPS
TOTAL
143,000
92.00
147.25
We were invited to play a major role in this event, but
were unable to attend. I hope we can take part in these
activities next year.
U.S. DISABLED
SKI CHAMPIONSHIP
Connecticut
Mutual
TED AIRLINES
NYNEX
Stratton
Alliance
ENDOLITE
Hellz
STRATTON MOUNTAIN, VT
Conducted by National Handicapped Sports 1145 19th Street, N.W. Suite 717 Washington, D.C. 20036 : (301) 652-7505
CHAP STICK U.S. DISABLED SKI CHAMPIONSHIP
STRATTON MOUNTAIN, VT, MARCH 11-18, 1990
FINAL SUMMARY OF NEWS COVERAGE
Television
National
18,700,000
New England
1,669,000
Home Towns
3,854,200
SUBTOTAL
24,233,200
Radio
17,660,000
(AMI Ski Network and NBC/Mutual Radio feeds included:
Public Service Announcements not included.)
Newspapers
National
2,093,000
Local
908,500
SUBTOTAL
3,001,500
TOTAL
44,894,700
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BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
THE
BVA BULLETIN
VOLUME XLIV, NO. 4
JULY-AUGUST 1989
Vice President Dan Quayle with BVA Executive Director,
Ronald L. Miller, Ph.D. and BVA Director of Governmental
and Community Relations, Thomas H. Miller.
Story on page 10.
(Official White House Photograph)
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
477 H STREET, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20001
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
THE
BVA BULLETIN
VOLUME XLIV, NO. 4
JULY-AUGUST 1989
Page 10
VICE PRESIDENT QUAYLE INVOLVED IN DISABILITY ISSUES
On July 7, 1989, Dr. Ronald L. Miller, BVA Executive Director and Thomas H. Miller,
Director of BVA Governmental and Community Relations were invited to attend a special
ceremony i the office of the Vice President of the United States. Vice President Quayle
presented a three-dimensional scale model of the Capitol Mall Area to the Department
of the Interior, National Park Service. The Scale model is built in three panels, each
panel a yard square, displaying more than sixty buildings and monuments of Capitol
Hill, the most well known area of Washington D.C. All buildings and monuments are
marked in braille and large print.
The special scale model is part of the Tactile Capital Project begun by the efforts and
leadership of George Covington, who is visually impaired. The project's initial phase
produced tactile maps of the Capitol Mall area, the U.S. Capitol and the subway system
in the Washington area. When detailed to the Department of Education and later to the
Speaker's Office, Covington continued the project. He now serves as special assistant
to the press secretary for the Vice President. Vice President Quayle is the first Vice
President to have a disabled person on his staff, focusing on disability issues. Vice
President Quayle is taking a special interest in accessibility issues and is giving George
Covington much encouragement and support. Guests attending the special ceremony
had an opportunity to examine the scale model and visually impaired people should find
the tactile displays extremely helpful for obtaining an accurate picture of our national
capital area.
AFB
AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR THE BLIND
news
AFB NEWS/JULY-OCTOBER 1989
U.S. Vice President Dan Quayle (left) presents a set of tactile maps of the U.S. Capitol Building and other Washington, DC, tourist
attractions to Sheikh Abdullah Mohammad Al-Ghanem (center) president of the Saudi Blind Foundation and immediate past
president of the World Blind Union, during his recent visit to the United States. Also pictured is George Covington a member
of the Vice President's press office. Covington, who is legally blind, serves on the consumer advisory panel for AFB's Mid-Atlantic
Regional Center's "Capital Sights Not Always Seen" project which will enable visually impaired people to enjoy the design art
and architecture of major Washington, DC, buildings and monuments.
Sheikh Al-Ghanem, who was in Washington, DC, for the opening of the cultural exhibit "Saudi Arabia Yesterday and Today,"
announced that a percentage of the proceeds from gift sales during the exhibit's visit to the Washington Convention Center will
be donated to AFB's Mid-Atlantic Regional Center. Susan Spungin, Ed.D., AFB's associate executive director for program services,
hosted a reception honoring Sheikh Al-Ghanem in AFB's Washington office on August 27. More than 100 leaders from blindness
agencies and organizations in the Washington metropolitan area attended the event.
The Sheikh's itinerary, which was planned by AFB Mid-Atlantic community consultant Pat Beattie, included visits to the White
House, Washington Ear, the Library of Congress National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped and the Na-
tional Building Museum, future site of AFB's "Capital Sights Not Always Seen" project. He also visited the National Federation
for the Blind headquarters in Baltimore.
A Worklife Employment and People with Disabilities
COMMITER ON EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE
THE PRESIDENTS MILIM
WINTER, 1989
VOLUME 2, NUMBER 4
"I want to be a full and practical partner
with business in the process of
maximizing profitability through the
full utilization of the productive
potential of people with disabilities."
A Worklife
WINTER, 1989
VOLUME 2. NUMBER I
Dart Remarks at Oath of Office
On October 5, 1989 the oath of office was
At this very special time I do want to recog-
delivered to Justin Dart, Jr., by the Vice President
nize the greatest human being that I have ever
of the United States, the Honorable J. Danforth
known: my leader, my colleague, my beloved
Quayle in a ceremony in the Indian Treaty Room
wife, Yoshiko Dart.
at the Old Executive Office Building.
As Chair of the President's Committee, I
More than 125 guests, ranging from Senators
cannot promise you any personal miracles of
and Congressmen from the House of Representa-
progress. Alone I can do little. Together we can do
tives to leading business men and leaders from the
much.
rehabilitation field gathered to honor the new
I will do my very best to serve the President
Chairman of the President's Committee on Em-
well by working together with his administration,
ployment of People with Disabilities.
with the Congress and with you to implement our
In the presence of his wife Yoshiko, family and
great agenda.
close friends, Mr. Dart delivered the following
The essential foundation for full employment
remarks:
and full participation in society is the passage of
Mr. Vice President. I am honored to be sworn
the Americans with Disabilities Act.
in by you. I deeply appreciate your personal sup-
ADA is the most important issue of our life-
port for people with disabilities and for the Ameri-
times.
cans with Disabilities Act, and your appointment
It will define the humanity of people with
of George Covington to your staff.
disabilities to every citizen of America and of the
I am honored by the presence of distinguished
world.
members of the Congress and the White House,
There must be no weakening amendments.
heroes of ADA and independence like Senators
Because a statement of partial equality would
Tom Harkin and James Jeffords and Congressman
legitimize Jim Crow discrimination by law, and
Major Owens; Shiree Sanchez, Jan Naylor, Sharon
condemn hundreds of millions in future genera-
Fitzpatrick and others.
tions, in American and throughout the world, to
I am also honored by the presence of a great
more segregation, more unemployment, more
patriot, Jim Brady.
poverty, and more massive expenditures for wel-
I am exceedingly proud to serve in the
fare.
Administration of the first President of the United
Like our founding fathers who established
States to elevate the equality and independence of
our magnificent free enterprise democracy, we
people with disabilities to a top national priority,
have the opportunity, we have the responsibility,
and who has appointed to his administration
to lead a positive revolution in the quality and the
authentic advocates for the rights of people with
productivity of human culture.
disabilities like Evan Kemp, Bob Davila, Gordon
Before I say my final words, I ask you to join
Mansfield, Allen Clark, Nell Carney, Sandy Par-
me now in a moment of silent meditation, as I pray
rino, Kent Waldrep, Mike Vader and Bob Funk.
for the wisdom and the strength too fulfill my
I am proud to chair the President's Commit-
responsibilities to the President, to America and to
tee on Employment of People with Disabilities,
our children's children.
and to work with that great American Jay Rochlin
Colleagues, I love you all.
and his fine staff.
Together we shall overcome.
I am proud to serve with, I am proud to know,
the great Americans assembled in this room. I
regret that time will not permit my mentioning
each of you by name.
WORKLIFE 23
Spring 1990
Services for Independent Living, Inc.
SIL HOSTS
VICE PRESIDENT
SIL
with
SC
STATE
THE
Vice President Dan Quayle addresses SIL Peer Counselors.
AWARE
NEWS
VICE PRESIDENT QUAYLE TOURS SIL
The City responsible for the traffic light,
your center's work to assist people with
Lifesavers, American Greetings, Lean Cuisine,
disabilities to make the decisions affecting
Standard Oil and Paul Newman also brought the
their lives. People with disabilities must have
first Executive site visit of a federally funded
the opportunity to participate in all aspects of
center for independent living when Vice President
community life. The work of your center is
Dan Quayle toured the SIL offices on January 8,
helping to reach this goal."
1990. While in Cleveland the Vice President also
The Vice President proceeded to the Functional
spoke at the Downtown City Club and NASA Lewis
Electrical Stimulation (FES) Information Center
Research Center.
housed in the SIL offices. Jeanne O'Malley
With helicopters circling the building, SWAT
Teeter, Project Manager and Geoffrey Thrope,
teams posted on roof tops, and wall-to-wall agents
Director, demonstrated the F.E.S. Information
from the Treasury Department, the Vice President
Center's data base and provided the Vice
arrived at SIL in a black Cadillac limousine
President with basic information regarding
around 10 a.m. Quayle was welcomed to the SIL
Functional Electrical Stimulation. Jim Jatich,
offices by William Bauer, SIL Executive Director
FES consumer, explained how an implant in his
and Margaret Meyer, SIL Program Director. The
chest generating electrical current helps him
Vice President was then introduced to James Thie
regain partial use of his hands.
(SIL Board President), Jesse Anderson (SIL Board
The Vice President then met with and addressed
Treasurer) and SIL contributors Hugh Depland of BP
the SIL Peer Counselors. While fielding
America and Bob Vicic of Charm Properties. Also
questions from the group, the Americans with
in attendance were David Lynch, Mayor of Euclid,
Disabilities Act (ADA) became the focal point of
and Joe Farrell, Euclid Council President.
the Vice President's comments. "This is the most
The Vice President spent approximately 90
comprehensive piece of legislation regarding
minutes meeting individually with the SIL staff
disabled Americans ever," Quayle stated. "The
and discussing independent living issues. "He
key to mainstreaming Americans with disabilities
didn't seem to be in any sort of hurry," said Rae
is equal employment opportunity. We have non-
Duncan Lyle, Accessibility Specialist. "You
discrimination clauses and public transportation
weren't held at arms length. He stood close and I
access in this legislation.' He concluded by
felt that he was genuinely interested in what I
congratulating the peer counselors and directors
had to say."
for their hard work.
Regarding SIL's services, the Vice President
"President Bush and I have stated repeatedly
commented that the SIL staff, programs and
that we will do everything possible to see that
facilities are an "outstanding example of what
people with disabilities are allowed to
people with disabilities can do when given the
participate in the American mainstream. Centers
resources". Quayle added, "I strongly support
such as this will help us achieve that promise."
William Bauer, Executive Director, and Margaret Meyer, Program Director, welcome
Vice President Dan Quayle to SIL.
THE VOICE
United Way
of San Diego County
The Community Service
Center for the Disabled
1295 UNIVERSITY AVENUE, SAN DIEGO, CA 92103
293-3500
APRIL/MAY 1990
VICE PRESIDENT QUAYLE AND SENATOR WILSON VISIT SPOKE SHOP
Bush Administration for passage
On Wednesday, February 28,
CSCD WINS CITY GRANT
of the Americans with Disabilities
1990, Vice President J. Danforth
Act (ADA) in the form that passed
On March 19, 1990, the San
Quayle, Senator Pete Wilson and
out of the U.S. Senate. Senator
Diego City Council voted to award
Mrs. Wilson visited CSCD's Spoke
Wilson, a co-author of ADA, and
CSCD a Community Development
Shop at 2860 University Avenue in
Vice President Quayle also ex-
Block Grant of $161,621. The
North Park. Following a brief tour
pressed their support fo re-authori-
funds will be used to renovate San
of the facilities, Vice President
zation of the Rehabilitation Act in
Diego's Independent Living Center
Quayle and Senator Wilson sat
1991.
in Hillcrest. Renovations will in-
down with representatives of
In a recent letter thanking
CSCD board and staff for an infor-
clude a new roof, fire suppressing
CSCD for it's hospitality, Vice
sprinklers, gates and fencing to
mal discussion of disability issues.
President Quayle wrote, "I know
secure the garage and an acces-
Spoke Shop Manager Ray
that the Community Service
sible kitchen for independent living
Zanella addressed the necessity
Center for the Disabled is recog-
training.
for reliable, well-maintained assis-
nized nationally as a leader am-
On behalf of the more than
tive devices to the independence
ong independent living centers
350,000 members of the local dis-
of individuals with disabilities, and
President Bush and I have
abled community, we thank Mayor
pointed to the Spoke Shop as an
repeatedly said that we will do
O'Connor and Council-members
example of what people with dis-
everything possible to see that
Wolfsheimer, Hartley, Bernhardt,
abilities can accomplish given
people with disabilities are allowed
McCarty and Filner. Special thanks
resources and the chance to make
to participate in the American
to Councilman Pratt who proposed
their own decisions.
mainstream. Centers such as
the vote. Thanks also to all who
Bill Tainter, CSCD's Executive
yours will help us keep that
wrote or telephoned their support
Director, emphasized the impor-
promise."
for CSCD's proposal.
tance of consumer control of ser-
vice delivery systems, the broad
diversity of services required by
citizens with disabilities, and the
positive role of federal funding in
CSCD's purchase of a facility
to be San Diego's permanent
Independent Living Center. Tainter
went on to praise Senator Wilson
for his long-time support of CSCD
and the independent living move-
ment, first as Mayor of San Diego,
then as California's law- giver in
Washington.
CSCD Assistant Director, Jon
Barbre, summarized the agency's
programs and services and their
impact on the disabled com-
munity of San Diego. Dr. Kimberly
Bartlett, Community Living Prog-
ram Manager, described the ac-
tivities of her federally funded tran-
sition program.
A general discussion of the
politics of disability on the national
L. to R. : United States Senator from California, the Honorable Pete Wilson;
CSCD Assistant Director for Business Enterprises, Raymond Zanella; CSCD
level followed. The Vice President
Executive Director, William Tainter; and the Vice President of the United States,
affirmed the full support of the
the Honorable J. Danforth Quayle.
SPORTS
'N SPOKES
THE MAGAZINE FOR WHEELCHAIR SPORT AND 'RECREATION
UPDATE
QUAYLE SUPPORTS
SPORTS FOR DISABLED
Vice President Dan Quayle affirmed
his support of sports for people with
disabilities at a December 19, 1989,
meeting in his office near the White
House with Paralyzed Veterans of
America (PVA) Sports & Recreation Di-
rector G. Andrew Fleming and Nation-
al Handicapped Sports (NHS) Execu-
tive Director Kirk Bauer. At the
meeting, Fleming presented a mono-
ski to Bauer, a gift from PVA to NHS.
TENNIS PSA WINS AWARD
Potomac Television/Communica-
tions, Inc., received the award of excel-
lence in video production at the 1989
International Television Video Associ-
ation (ITVA) Washington Video festi-
val, for a public service announcement
(PSA) designed to encourage wheel-
chair tennis tournament attendance.
The 30-second spot was produced by
Potomac Television/Communications
(From left) Vice President Dan Quayle, Andy Fleming, and Kirk Bauer discuss mono-skiing and other
for the Nation's Capital Wheelchair
adaptive skiing techniques at a meeting in Quayle's Washington, DC, office. Official White House Photo.
SPORTS 'N SPOKES
March/April 1990
Volume 15 Number 6
Paraplegia
Vice President
Quayle supports
SCI research
(ISSN 0031-1766) April 1990 / Volume 44 Number 4
Paraplegia News, owned and oper-
ated-by the Paralyzed Veterans of
Paraplegia
America, is now in its 44th year of
publication. An official organ of the
Paralyzed Veterans of America, it is published
in the interest of and for the benefit of para-
plegics (civilians and veterans) all over the
world. It is dedicated to the presentation of all
news concerning paraplegics and wheelchair
Features
living. PN welcomes manuscripts and articles
for publication consideration. Manuscripts must
be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped
envelope if return is requested. Paraplegia
News neither endorses nor guarantees any of
the products or services advertised. Readers are
strongly urged to thoroughly investigate prod-
ucts/companies before purchase.
Paraplegia News Staff
Chickie Crase / Editor and Publisher
S. A. Snibbor / Assistant Editor
Sherri Shee-ah / Marketing Director
Carribein Artdir / Art & Production Director
Ann Funderlin / Editorial Assistant
Priscilla Dewey / Circulation Coordinator
California Garvey / Office Assistant
Yearly US subscription rate to Paraplegia News
is $12 (foreign, $20). PVA member subscriptions are
paid for by chapters. Back issues may be purchased
at $2 each; three or more issues are $1.50 each.
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Send change of address to Paraplegia News, 5201
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Sexuality And
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clude old and new addresses and previous mailing label.
by David M. Capozzi
Multiple Sclerosis
38
Editorial, Business, and Advertising Office:
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by Jack K. Plummer, Ph.D.
5201 North 19th Avenue, Suite 111, Phoenix, AZ
85015. (602) 246-9426. Fax: (602) 242-6862.
projects for accessible
Resources
40
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public transit systems.
fice: 801 18th Street. NW, Washington, DC 20006.
(202) USA-1300.
PVA Officers
Evad Rekrap / President
MS Special Report:
Kcaj Sleahcim / Immediate Past President
Sexuality
35
Drahcir F. Nosnhoj / Senior Vice President
Semaj J. Sretep / Vice President
Introduction
35
Yrral Nahgallac / Vice President
by Pat Larrimore, R.N., M.S.
Lrac Htimsdlog / Vice President
Dahc Yelworc / Vice President
Sexuality:
Yrrej Nagud / Treasurer
One Of Many Passions 36
Knarf Ogir / Secretary
by JoAnn LeMaistre, Ph.D.
PVA National Office
R. Kcaj Llewop / Executive Director
Derf Doogdib / Assoc. ED, Administration
Rotciv S. YoCcm / Assoc. ED, Veterans' Benefits
Hpesoj P. Srevart / Assoc. ED, MARAD
Adnil Dleifsnam / Assoc. ED, Commun. & Devel.
Hpesoj Grubnrets / Chief Financial Officer
Werdna Gnimelf / Director, Sports & Recreation
Lihp Nibar / Director, Public Ed. & Communication
On the cover: Vice President Dan
Mik Yelsaeb / Director, Arch. & Barrier-free Design
Trebor Noslen / General Counsel
MS
Quayle and PVA President Dave
Parker joined those attending a
© 1990 Paralyzed Veterans of America
Washington, DC, reception to benefit
All rights reserved. Reproduction of the whole or any part of
the contents without permission is prohibited.
35
SCI research. Photo by Lee Anderson.
4
Paraplegia News/April 1990
Columns
Automotive Alert
48
Emergency evacuation
Departments
Communication
Connection
51
Classified Ads
69
Benefit reception; American Portraits:
Chapter Briefs
55
America's Veterans; Independent
Budget news conference
Chapter Roster
54
Design Lines
49
Information Center
64
National AIA conference; Code
group completes scope document;
Innovations
68
SCl-center projects delayed;
President's Message
11
VA SCI center project status report
Where do we go from here?
Inside Industry
62
Judicial Review
14
PVA Alert!
24
Legislative Highlights
17
Initiating an appeal
VA contemplates
Looking Ahead
66
major benefits cutbacks
News Beat
59
Reader Service
70
Quayle is honorary PVA staff
Reasons & Remarks
8
member; Christian council;
Honoring the Bear; Remembering
Readers Respond
6
Spina bifida program; APA meetings;
Denny; Who knows?; Enforcin'
ServoLink Skills video
parkin'; I quit!
Service Office Roster
46
Research Report
12
Study shows
nerve regeneration possible
Service To Veterans
42
Treatment rights of SCI veterans
(part 2); Welcome to the ranks!;
Secondary medical conditions;
The veteran advisor
Veterans Update
47
Medical recruiting campaign;
Common Fate
Washington Scene
18
If it quacks like a duck
;
ADA; Uniform handicap parking
system; Litigation update;
New advocacy director
Spotlight: Sixth Access to the
59
Skies Conference
Paraplegia News/April 1990
5
Communication Connection
PHOTOS BY LEE ANDERSON
EXIT
More than 400 supporters jam the reception room at the Hyatt Regency in Washington, DC.
Benefit reception
Vice President Dan Quayle led a dis-
tinguished list of attendees at the Third
Annual Washington Reception to Ben-
efit Spinal Cord Injury Research, held
at the Hyatt Regency-Capitol Hill,
Washington, DC, on February 6. The
event, cosponsored by PVA's SCI Re-
search Foundation (SCRF) and The
Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, at-
tracted more than 400 people, includ-
ing 20 congressmen, a number of
sports celebrities, and Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Ed-
ward Derwinski. The master of cere-
monies was well-known local televi-
sion sportscaster Frank Herzog.
The honorary committee for the event
consisted of 150 members, including
130 celebrities and members of Con-
gress. President Bush and Vice President
Quayle were honorary cochairmen.
Reception attendees were shown a
videotape about progress in SCI re-
search. Highlighting PVA's nationwide
research activities, the tape featured
comments by Dr. H. Hunter Peckham,
Case Western University; Dr. Inder
Perkash, Stanford University; Dr. Wise
Linda Mansfield
Associate Executive
Director for
Communication &
Development
Vice President Dan Quayle and PVA President Dave Parker are two of the distinguished
guests at the Third Annual Washington Reception to Benefit Spinal Cord Injury Research.
Paraplegia News/April 1990
51
Communication Connection
Young, New York University; and Dr.
Stephen Waxman, Yale University.
Candice Bergen, star of the CBS-TV
series Murphy Brown, stated in her
videotaped comments, "The quest for a
cure for spinal cord injury truly is gain-
ing momentum. Just ten years ago, the
outlook in the scientific community
was bleak and uncertain. But today that
pessimism has turned to optimism,
with a growing sense of excitement as
scientists working from coast to coast
start to understand and unravel the
mysteries of the spinal cord.
"And recent progress will signifi-
cantly improve the lives of those with a
spinal cord injury. In fact, the major
US
drawback we now face in spinal cord
research is money-or the lack of it."
During the reception, the large crowd
WELCOM
of attendees was addressed by a num-
Home
ber of people, including Vice President
Quayle, PVA Executive Director R.
Jack Powell, Nick and Mark Buonicon-
ti (spokespeople for The Miami Pro-
American Portraits: America's Veterans
ject), and Joe Gibbs, head coach of the
Washington Redskins.
On Veterans Day 1989, PVA an-
chosen from the collection by a panel
A number of corporations, founda-
nounced plans to establish a perma-
of judges will be presented to Presi-
tions, and associations provided signifi-
nent photo exhibit to honor all veter-
dent Bush on Veterans Day.
cant financial support to the event.
ans, called "American Portraits:
Mail photos to "American Portraits:
Among them were The Milken Family
America's Veterans." Until Veterans
America's Veterans," Paralyzed Veter-
Medical Foundation; United Parcel
Day 1990, Americans may send in
ans of America, 801 Eighteenth
Service; Dave Budin Consulting; IBM;
photos of themselves, relatives, or
Street, NW, Washington, DC 20006.
Ryder Systems, Inc.; AMAX, Inc.;
friends taken during their military
All photos received become the prop-
American Medical Association; Air
service. Photos may depict any peri-
erty of PVA and will not be returned.
od of active-duty service. Pictures
Force Association; United Airlines; Sun
Budget, in response to the Bush admin-
Company, Inc.; Medtronics, Inc.; Sandoz
istration's 1991 proposed funding for
Corporation; and Support Systems, In-
the Department of Veterans Affairs
ternational. Proceeds will benefit PVA's
(VA). The Independent Budget con-
Spinal Cord Research Foundation.
cludes that VA will need $31.04 billion
in fiscal year 1991 to maintain a basic
essential level of service.
Through the coming months of the
Independent Budget
budget process, PVA Government Re-
news conference
lations staff will continue to meet with
the key committees on Capitol Hill to
At a nationally televised news con-
let members of Congress know just
ference in February, executive directors
how bad the situation is for VA. De-
of PVA, Veterans of Foreign Wars
spite the $1 billion increase for health
(VFW), Disabled American Veterans
care, Independent Budget authors say it
(DAV), and American Veterans of WW
Pro wrestler and honorary reception com-
is $690 million short of what is needed
II, Korea, Vietnam, and Those Who
mittee member "Big, John" Studd (right)
to restore VA health care to essential
smiles for the camera with a friend,
Served Thereafter (AMVETS) present-
levels of service for veterans.
PVA's executive director R. Jack Powell.
ed an overview of the Independent
52
Paraplegia News/April 1990
News Beat
Quayle is honorary
PVA staff member
Vice President Dan Quayle affirmed
his support of sports for people with
disabilities at a December 19, 1989,
meeting in his office near the White
House with Paralyzed Veterans of
America (PVA) Sports & Recreation
Director G. Andrew Fleming and Na-
tional Handicapped Sports (NHS) Ex-
ecutive Director Kirk Bauer. At the
meeting, Fleming presented a mono-ski
to Bauer, a gift from PVA to NHS, and
a "PVA Sports" shirt to the Vice Presi-
dent, making him an honorary member
Vice President Dan Quayle displays the "PVA Sports" shirt presented to him by
of the PVA Sports & Recreation staff.
PVA Sports & Recreation Director G. Andrew Fleming. Official White House photo.
1989 by disability ministries from
oped outlines for position papers on
across the country to challenge Christian
key disability issues related to the
leaders to carry out Christ's mandate
church. The papers are expected to be
Christian council
with regard to people with disabilities.
published and distributed this year.
Chaired by Joni Eareckson Tada, the
During its first year, the group spon-
The council also played a major role
Christian Council on Persons With Dis-
sored a three-day symposium for lead-
in helping educate the evangelical
abilities (CCPD) was formed in March
ers of disability ministries that devel-
community about the Americans With
What does
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BECAUSE THE WORLD IS NOT FLAT
after Easter?
The same thing we do before
Easter and before and after
Christmas, the Fourth of July,
Passover and Thanksgiving
Day. Our services for people
with disabilities continue all
year long.
Physical, occupational and
speech-language therapies
Vocational evaluation and
training
Camping and recreation
Psychological counseling
Prevention and screening
NEW COMFORT INDOORS
DURABILITY OUTDOORS
for disabling conditions
And much more.
IRON HORSE PRODUCTIONS, INC.
National Easter
Seal Society
2624 Conner Street
70 East Lake Street
Port Huron, Michigan 48060
Seals
Chicago, IL 60601
312/726-6200 (Voice)
Call 1-800-426-0354
312/726-4258 (TDD)
VISA/MASTERCARD accepted
Paraplegia News/April 1990
59
SPORTS
SPOKES
THE MAGAZINE FOR WHEELCHAIR SPORTS AND RECREATION
UPDATE
QUAYLE RECEIVES POSTER
appeared in numerous other periodicals
MIDNIGHT SUN
and books because of its dramatic ap-
In November 1988, Sports 'n Spokes
peal. The photo of Broadbent, an inter-
CANOE TRIP
ran a cover photo of Erin Broadbent rap-
national cooperation specialist with the
Norwegian Arctic Trips has sched-
pelling down a cliff in Australia. This
National Park Service, was taken on a
uled a special canoe adventure from
cover photo by Greg Lais subsequently
two-week canoe trip on the Snowy River
June 30 to July 14 for an able/disabled
in Australia, sponsored
paddling group. Destination: North
by Wilderness Inquiry
Norway, 200 miles above the Arctic
of Minneapolis, MN,
Circle. The trip is a Norwegian Arctic
and Outward Bound
river excursion from Reisa National
Australia.
Park to the sea. Participants will pad-
Public response to
dle the Reisa River, which is fed by
the photograph was SO
towering waterfalls as it carves a val-
positive that S'NS re-
ley between snow-capped mountains.
cently produced it as
Accessible accommodations and Eng-
the first in a poster se-
lish-speaking guides are provided in
ries. In December
this primitive area of Lapland, where
1989; Broadbent pre-
there are no travel agents, no hotels, no
sented a sample of the
restaurants, and no road into Reisa Na-
poster to Vice Presi-
tional Park. Travel upriver is in 30'
dent Dan Quayle in
riverboats. There are four paddling
recognition of his sup-
days, with two nights spent in Lapp-
port for sports and
style tents. Home base is a dairy farm
recreation for individ-
operated by the family of guide Alv
uals with disabilities.
Elvestad. Sightseeing days in Oslo and
Vice President Dan Quayle admires a poster of a popular S'NS cover,
The Vice President
Tromso include exploration of Lapp cul-
presented to him by Erin Broadbent. The poster shows Broadbent, a
has displayed it in his
ture and visits to Viking ships and Kon
National Park Service employee, rappelling down a cliff in Australia.
Capitol Hill office.
Tiki, Thor Heyerdahl's famous raft.
SNS
SPORTS 'N SPOKES
May/June 1990
Volume 16 Number 1
Paraplegia
Paralyzed Veterans of America
June 1990
ORLANDO
PVA'S
1990
Convention
City
News Beat
Poster Presented
to Vice President
In November 1989, PVA's Sports 'n
Spokes magazine ran a cover photo of
Erin Broadbent rappelling down a cliff
in Australia. Because of its dramatic
appeal, this cover photo by Greg Lais
subsequently appeared in numerous
other periodicals and books. The photo
of Broadbent, an international cooper-
ation specialist with the National Park
Service, was taken on a two-week ca-
noe trip on the Snowy River in Aus-
tralia. The adventure was sponsored by
Wilderness Inquiry of Minneapolis and
Outward Bound Australia.
Public response to the photo was so
positive that S"NS recently produced it
as the first in a poster series. In Decem-
US Vice President Dan Quayle admires a poster of a popularS'NS cover, presented to
ber 1989, Broadbent presented a sample
him by Erin Broadbent. The dramatic poster shows Broadbent, a National Park Serv-
of the poster to Vice President Dan
ice employee, rappelling down a cliff during a canoe trip on Australia's Snowy River.
Quayle in recognition of his support for
sports and recreation for individuals
with disabilities. The Vice President has
displayed it in his Capitol Hill office.
The Monthly Newsletter
of the Royal Embassy of
Saudi Arabia, Washington, D.C.
September 1989
Volume 6. Number 9
ADVOCATE FOR BLIND VISITS WASHINGTON
S
heikh Abdullah Muham-
ion. Because this is the Islamic-
mad Al-Ghanim, Presi-
tradition, we believe the blind
dent of the Middle East Re-
should be helped."
gional Bureau for the Affairs
In his paper entitled
of the Blind and former presi-
Union of the Blind, was re-
ceived by Vice President J.
Photo by Steven Purcell. The White House
"Welfare of the Disabled in
dent of the International
Saudi Arabia," Sheikh Al-
Ghanim notes that Saudi Ara-
bia encouraged the establish-
Danforth Quayle at the White
ment of the Regional Bureau
House during a trip to Wash-
of the Middle East Committee
ington, D.C. in late July.
for the Affairs of the Blind.
Sheikh Al-Ghanim expressed
The Bureau contains the most
his hope that the U.S. adminis-
modern computer system in
tration will continue to work
the Middle East for braille
Vice President Quayle and Sheikh Al-Ghanim in Washington
toward meeting the needs of
printing, modern printing
the blind.
where he attended a reception
said that of 42 million blind
press equipment, a special
The vice president pre-
in his honor and examined the
people in the world, 80 per-
Talking Book Library, and a
sented Sheikh Al-Ghanim with
new Kurzweil personal reader,
cent are in developing coun-
special unit for research and
special tactile maps of the city
a machine that scans a publi-
tries. He added that 13 of every
studies.
of Washington and the Metro
cation and then reads it to the
14 blind children in develop-
During his stay, Sheikh
subway system, which are de-
user. At the reception, Sheikh
ing countries are neglected by
Al-Ghanim visited the head-
signed to be used by the blind.
Al-Ghanim said, "Saudi Arabia
their governments and need
quarters of the National Fed-
After the meeting, George
believes in equal opportunities
the help of the more fortunate.
eration of the Blind in Balti-
Covington, a legally blind as-
for everyone, regardless of
"In view of this," he con-
more, the National Library
sistant to the Vice President,
their handicaps or disabilities.
tinued, "Saudi Arabia has
Service for the Blind and
took Sheikh Al-Ghanim on a
We believe that the blind and
given a lot of assistance and
Physically Handicapped at the
tour of the U.S. Capitol.
the handicapped can be useful
aid to the blind in the Middle
Library of Congress, and The
On July 27, Sheikh Al-
members of the society if
East, Asia. Africa, and Latin
Washington Ear, Inc.'s broad-
Ghanim visited the American
educated."
America, without any discrim-
cast facilities for the blind in
Foundation for the Blind,
Sheikh Al-Ghanim also
ination of race, color, or relig-
Silver Spring, Maryland. x
June 18, 1990
the
Capsto
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Vol. 11, No. 17
A New Partnership
Dr. Sylvia Walker, director of the Center for the
Study of Handicapped Children and Youth and a member of the Congressional
Task Force on the Americans with Disabilities Act, recently presented Vice
President Dan Quayle with a copy of "Bridges to Independence", a study which
addresses the needs of the disabled. The center has formed a working partnership
with the Vice President's office.
6/LOCAL REPORT
The News-Herald
Tuesday, Jan. 9, 1990
Russell woman gets
new view of Quayle
Vice president seems 'forthright'
By Emery P. Dalesio
to Euclid was meant to cheer
News-Herald Staff Writer
the center's staff and cast a
There's really not much you
little reflected light on its
can learn about a person from
work. It's a fundamental prin-
a brief meeting, but Nancy
ciple that where the president
Janoch of Russell Township
and vice president go, the me-
will remember Vice President
dia follow. So it follows that
Dan Quayle as a man more
places the nation's top execu-
composed and confident than
tives choose to visit get a
his press clippings suggest.
bright moment in the spot-
"He seemed very sincere
light.
and forthright, very at ease -
The center's employees said
despite what you heard at the
they felt honored.
beginning," said Janoch, a re-
"If his job is to go around
ceptionist at Services for Inde-
creating good will for the ad-
pendent Living in Euclid.
ministration, he certainly
"He's a pleasant young man."
seemed to be doing that," said
"He made other people feel
Rae Duncan Lyle, a specialist
Associated Press
comfortable, too. He made
in accessibility services.
Vice President Dan Quayle, left, tours the NASA Lewis Research Center in Cleveland yesterday
you feel like you could talk to
Quayle spoke briefly about
with Lewis Director John Klineberg during his tour of Northeast Ohio.
him, too," said SIL program
a sister-in-law who is hearing-
director Margaret Meyer.
impaired, but after great diffi-
would support the law, be-
in favor of (the law)."
shake hands at arms length.
That was the general im-
culty, eventually found em-
cause of opposition from busi-
"I think it says a lot for the
He came in with his hand ex-
pression of the man who
ployment. He spoke about the
ness groups.
administrations' support of
tended and then he got very
bounced around Cuyahoga
Bush Administration's support
"What I really liked about
the handicapped," added
close so that he gives you the
County yesterday. Stops in-
for the Americans with Disa-
(Quayle's) visit was he was in-
Mayor David M. Lynch, who
impression that he's very in-
cluded the City Club in
bilities Act in Congress.
terested in the rights of per-
greeted Quayle.
terested to know what you
Downtown Cleveland, NASA's
The legislation's far-reach-
sons with disabilities and as-
Quayle stayed in Euclid for
think.
Lewis Research Center and
ing provisions are comparable
suring that we obtain these
about one hour - twice as
Bauer said he was honored
the Euclid agency that helps
to a Civil Rights Act for disa-
rights," said Bauer, of May-
long as planned - to talk to
that the center's work was rec-
physically handicapped people
bled people, said SIL Execu-
field Village. "I'm very sur-
employees and clients.
ognized and chosen for
live as independently as possi-
tive Director William Bauer.
prised and happy that the vice
"He didn't seem to be in
Quayle's visit. He said he
ble.
He said he was surprised that
president and President Bush
any sort of hurry," Lyle said.
doubted anyone would be able
Quayle's mid-morning visit
a Republican administration
have come out from the start
"He walked in and he didn't
to concentrate on work.
THE SUN MESSENGER Thursday, January 11, 1990 Page 85
Quayle visit puts spotlight on federal disabilities act
her to get gainful employment but.
By JEFF PIORKOWSKI
after a lot of hard work. she is now
Staff Writer
employed and working. She lives by
Vice President Dan Quayle paid a
herself and is reasonably debt-
visit to Euclid's Services for Inde-
free."
pendent Living Inc., 25100 Euclid
THE QUESTION of debt was
Ave., to assure disabled persons
raised by a young woman in the
that the administration of President
group who questioned whether
George Bush has them "in mind."
ADA was a strong enough measure
Arriving in a black Cadillac lim-
to help the disabled persons who
ousine at about 9:55 a.m. Monday,
must earn what an able-bodied per-
Quayle talked to a group of about 15
son would, plus extra wages to pay
counselors for persons with disabil-
for unique devices needed for par-
ities, all of whom were themselves
ticular disabilities.
confined to wheelchairs or blind.
"The ADA legislation will ga a
HE ALSO congratulated the
long way towards helping disabled
counselors and directors at the or-
Americans get employment,"
ganization for their hard work.
Quayle said. "The key to this legis-
Other stops during the day in-
lation is employment opportunity.
cluded the City Club in downtown
"We have non-discrimination
Cleveland and NASA Lewis Re-
clauses in this legislation and pub-
search Center.
lic transportation access in this le-
Services for Independent Living
gislation," he said. "This is the most
is a federally-funded group formed
comprehensive piece of legislation
in 1980 that aids the disabled in
regarding disabled Americans ever.
learning to live an independent
When the president signs the legis-
lifestyle.
lation later this year, it will be an
According to SIL executive direc-
historic moment."
tor William Bauer, the organization
Margaret Meyer of Euclid, SIL
helped about 5,100 people last year,
program director. said, "It was cer-
most of whom were residents of
tainly an exciting experience for us
Cuyahoga County.
having the vice president here. We
"The president and I care about
understand it's the first indepen-
disabled Americans," Quayle said.
dent living center he has visited."
SJN PHOTO BY THOMAS NELSON'
"The president has put forth strong
SIL is one of only two indepen-
legislation to help disabled
dent living centers in Ohio - the
Vice President Dan Quayle answered counselors' questions Monday at Euclid's Services for independent Living, 25100 Euclid Ave., as part of a brief
Americans."
other is in Cincinnati - and one of
visit. Quayle told the counselors that the Bush administration recognizes the employment problems of disabled persons, and that the pending
Quayle was referring to the
about 400 across the country.
American with Disabilities Act will go a long way toward helping them. "When the President signs the legislation later this year. it will be an historic
Americans with Disabilities Act,
"WE WERE PLEASED to hear
moment." Quayle said.
which is expected to become law lat-
he was aware of the unemployment
er this year. The ADA would ensure
problem, and we hope he'll do what-
rights, such as public access and in-
ever he can to help," Meyer said.
unemployed disabled people in
stop here," Bauer said. "It was
Euclid Mayor David Lynch and
president to Euclid, quipping.
terpretation of public information,
"Plain discrimination is what hap-
America. with an unemployment
wonderful
Council President Joe Farrell also
nally get to meet a politician closer?
to persons with disabilities.
pens when a disabled person goes to
rate of 65 percent.
"I really enjoyed meeting the vice
were on hand for Quayle's 15-min-
to my own age."
"I have a sister-in-law named Sal-
look for a job. Prejudice is probably
"The president had indicated
president." he said. "He seemed
ute SIL talk.
ly with a severe hearing impair-
a better word to use."
that, when the vice president was to
genuinely concerned and enthused
Lynch. 32. presented Quayle with
Quayle, 42, replied, "I'm a lot old-
ment," Quayle said. "It was hard for
Quayle said there are 8 million
come to Cleveland, that he should
about helping us."
a prociamation welcoming the vice
er than you think."
Margaret Meyer of Euclid. SIL
other is in Cincinnati - and one 0
Quayle
program director, said, "It was cer-
about 400 across the country
tainly an exciting experience for us
"WE WERE PLEASED to hea
having the vice president here. We
he was aware of the unemploymen
from page A1
understand it's the first indepen-
problem, and we hope he'll do what
dent living center he has visited."
ever he can to help," Meyer said
When the president signs the legis-
lation later this year, it will be an
SIL is one of only two Indepen-
"Plain discrimination is what hap
historic moment."
dent living centers in Ohio - the
pens when a disabled person goes 1.
look for a job. Prejudice is probabl
a better word to use."
Quayle said there are 8 million
unemployed disabled people "
America, with an unemploymen
rate of 65 percent.
"The president had indicate
that, when the vice president was t
come to Cleveland, that he shoul
stop here," Bauer sald. "It wa
"I really enjoyed meeting the vic
president," he said. "He seeme
genuinely concerned and enthuse
about helping us."
Page A8 Thursday, January 11, 1990 EUCLID SUN JOURNAL
Euclld Mayor David Lynch an
Council President Joe Farrell als
were on hand for Quaylç's 15-mir
ute SIL talk.
Lynch, 32, presented Quayle wit
a proclamation welcoming the vic
president to Euclid, quipping; "II
nally get to meet a politician close
to my own age."
Quayle, 42, replied, "I'm a lot ol.
er than you think."
SUN PHOTOS BY THOMAS NCLS
The only local stop for Vice president Dan Quayle outside of Cleveland during his visit Monday was at Euclid's
Services for Independent Living, 25100 Euclid Ave. Quayle (above) went around the room and introduced
himself to the organization's counsclors, all of whom have disabilities. Mayor David Lynch (below, left) and
Council President Joe Farrell flanked the vice president when Lynch presented Quayle with a proclamation that
welcomed him to Euclid.
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON
July 23, 1990
NOTE TO: CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
BILL KRISTOL We
Attached are my comments on the President's remarks for the
signing of the ADA bill on Thursday.
Page 2, bold-type sentence in the last paragraph:
Read literally, which is how these things should
be read, this would indicate that the President
does not consider abortion a violation of the
basic guarantee of life. There is no need to
open this can of worms.
Page 4: Last paragraph. The Phrase "With the birth of
a child." This must be reworded. As it stands,
it equates childbirth with an accident or injury
What it means to say is that a child can be born
with a handicap. But in its present shorthand
form, it does not say that at all.
Page 6: Second paragraph from the end. These are ringing
words, but they go far, far beyond the scope of
the ADA. No discrimination "against ANYONE
?"
Does this put the President on record in favor of
the broadest possible interpretation of the ADA
to cover gender preference? No discrimination
against persons with certain pathologies like
child molesting? No discrimination against
felons? The ADA -- and its signing ceremony --
are supposed to be about persons with disabilities.
We should not blur that focus the way this
paragraph does.
(Hinchliffe/Garmey)
July 18, 1990 4:00 p.m.
ADABILL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SIGNING OF THE ADA BILL
SOUTH LAWN
JULY 26, 1990
Thank you. And welcome to every one of you out there in
this splendid tableau of hope spread across the South Lawn. 111
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS]
Three weeks ago, we celebrated our nation's Independence
Day. Today, we're here to rejoice and be glad of another
Independence Day. One that is long overdue. One that is dawning
with a brilliant glow of promise -- a day on which doors too long
bolted, both physically and symbolically, are being thrown wide.
with today's signing of the landmark Americans with
Disabilities Act, the disabled population of our country is now
free to pass through these once closed doors into a bright new
era of equality, independence, and freedom. III
As I look around at all these joyous faces, I remember
clearly how many years of dedicated commitment have gone into
making this historic act a reality. It has been the work of a
true coalition. A strong, inspiring coalition of people who have
shared both a dream and the passionate determination to make that
dream a reality.
And it has been a coalition in the finest American spirit:
a joining of Democrats and Republicans; of the legislative and
executive branches; of federal and state agencies; of public
2
officials and private citizens; of people with disabilities and
without.
This historic ADA bill is the world's first declaration of
equality for people with disabilities. Its passage has made the
United States the international leader on this human rights
issue. This exciting accomplishment is more than a point of
light: it is a torchlight to the world. Already, several other
countries, including Sweden, Japan and the U.S.S.R., have
announced that they will introduce similar legislation in their
own governments. III
And it's all due to what our courageous pioneers wrote in
the Declaration of Independence: "We hold these Truths to be
self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are
endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights. "
These brilliant words have been our guide for more than two
centuries as we have labored to form our more perfect union.
But, tragically, there have been those for whom the blessings of
these truths have not been a reality. The Civil Rights Act of
1964 courageously took a bold step towards righting that wrong.
But the stark fact remained that disabled people were still
victims of segregation and discrimination. This was intolerable.
So today's legislation finally guarantees that, under the law, no
American will ever again be deprived of their basic guarantee of
life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. III
This Act is powerful in its simplicity. It will ensure that
people with disabilities are given the basic guarantees for which
3
they have so long strived: independence, freedom of choice,
control of their lives, and the opportunity to blend fully and
equally into the rich mosaic of the American mainstream. 111
Legally, it will endow our disabled community with a
powerful expansion of protections and basic civil rights.
Specifically, it will guarantee fair and just access to the
fruits of American life which we all must enjoy: not only
broadened employment opportunities; but also meaningful access to
all aspects of society -- public accommodations; transit systems;
and communications networks.
It will enrich the quality of life of the nearly 43 million
Americans whose physical or mental disabilities limit their
activities. That's 18% of our population -- reaching across all
lines: age, race, faith, gender and economics. 11
The ADA bill is designed for those who had visions of the
stars but could not reach for them. It will help raise toward
their goal arms which could not move. It will cradle and steady
bodies which held hopes but no strength. It will light eyes
whose only sight had been inward; and support legs as they take
their first symbolic steps toward the future.
It will ease what the deaf-blind poet Robert Smithdas, the
American Poetry Society's Poet of the Year, calls "the silent
fog" of isolation.
And it will ensure that disabled Americans become full
partners in the daily challenges and opportunities of our
American society. 111
4
This Act is a dramatic renewal not only for those with
disabilities, but for all Americans. Today I reach out to
everyone. For this Act to succeed, we must all cooperate.
Together, we must remove the physical barriers we have created,
and the social barriers we have accepted.
This legislation empowers those who are disabled. But it
also challenges those of us unrestricted by physical or mental
disabilities. It challenges our nation to work together to
create a truly mainstreamed society. There are those who need
our help. We must give it gladly, for this will never be a truly
prosperous nation until all within it prosper. 11
This is not legislation designed for a few. It is a call to
fairness, equality and respect from every American to every other
American. It is an affirmation that every life in our splendid
nation is equal. It is an affirmation that every life is worth
saving, worth enhancing, worth living. III
We are, with this act, guaranteeing our diversity, our
compassion, our understanding, and our strength as a nation. We
must each of us strive to fulfill the spirit as well as the word
of this law. 11
After all, disabled Americans are the only minority group of
which any of us can become a member, at any moment in our lives.
With the birth of a child In an accident driving home from
work. In a fall while painting the house. Through the aging
process. Or during a sudden illness. III
5
I want to say a special word to our friends in the business
community. You have in your hands the key to the success of this
Act: for you can unlock a splendid resource of untapped human
potential which, when freed, will enrich us all.
You have called for new sources of workers. Well, the
majority of our fellow citizens with disabilities are unemployed,
and they can -- and want to -- work. This is a tremendous pool
of people who will bring to jobs their diversity, loyalty, proven
low turnover rate and only one request: the chance to prove
themselves.
It costs almost $200 billion annually to support disabled
Americans -- in effect, to keep them dependent. When given the
opportunity to be independent, they will move proudly into the
economic mainstream of American life. 11
My friends, our problems are large, but our unified heart is
larger. Our challenges are great, but our will is greater. 111
In our America, the most generous, optimistic nation on the
face of the earth, we must not -- and will not -- rest until
every man and woman with a dream has the means to achieve it. III
Today, America welcomes into the mainstream of life our
disabled fellow citizens. We embrace you not for your
disabilities but for your abilities; not for your differences but
for our similarities; not for your past pain but for your future
dreams. III
Last year, we celebrated the victory of international
freedom. Even the able-bodied could not scale the Berlin Wall to
6
gain the elusive promise of independence that lay just beyond.
And so, together, we rejoiced when that barrier fell.
And now I sign legislation which takes a sledgehammer to
another Wall: one which has, for too many generations, separated
disabled Americans from the freedom they could glimpse but could
not grasp.
And once again we rejoice as this barrier falls, proclaiming
together: We will not accept, we will not excuse, we will not
tolerate discrimination against anyone ever again. III
God bless you. On behalf of America, I now raise my pen to
sign this bill and say: let the shameful wall of exclusion
finally come tumbling down.
*****
Document No. 159433
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 7/18/90
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 12:00 NOON 7/23/90
SUBJECT: Presidential Remarks: Signing of the ADA Bill
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
CARD
UNTERMEYER
CICCONI
Rogers
DEMAREST
Winston
FITZWATER
Pinkerton
GRAY
HAGIN
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston no later than 12:00 NOON, MONDAY, JULY 23, 1990 with
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Garmey)
July 18, 1990 4:00 p.m.
ADABILL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SIGNING OF THE ADA BILL
SOUTH LAWN
JULY 26, 1990
WORD CHOICE
Thank you.
/
And welcome to every one of you out there in
this splendid tableau of hope spread across the South Lawn. III
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS]
Three weeks ago, we celebrated our nation's Independence
CECEBRATE
Day. Today, we're here to rejoice and be glad of another
Independence Day. One that is long overdue. One that is dawning
with a brilliant glow of promise -- a day on which doors too long
bolted, both physically and symbolically, are being thrown wide.
with today's signing of the landmark Americans with
Disabilities Act, the disabled population of our country is now
free to pass through these once closed doors into a bright new
era of equality, independence, and freedom. III
As I look around at all these joyous faces, I remember
clearly how many years of dedicated commitment have gone into
making this historic act a reality. It has been the work of a
true coalition. A strong, inspiring coalition of people who have
shared both a dream and the passionate determination to make that
dream a reality.
And it has been a coalition in the finest American spirit:
a joining of Democrats and Republicans; of the legislative and
executive branches; of federal and state agencies; of public
2
officials and private citizens; of people with disabilities and
without.
COMPREHENSIVE
This historic ADA bill is the world's first/declaration of
equality for people with disabilities. Its passage has made the
United States the international leader on this human rights
issue. This exciting accomplishment is more than a point of
light: it is a torchlight to the world. Already, several other
stet
GOVERNMENTS
CANADA
countries, including Sweden in Japan and the U.S.S.R., have
PROPOSE
LAWS
announced that they will introduce similar legislation in their
own governments. 171
And it's all due to what our courageous pioneers wrote in
the Declaration of Independence: "We hold these Truths to be
self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are
endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights."
These brilliant words have been our guide for more than two
centuries as we have labored to form our more perfect union.
But, tragically, there have been those for whom the blessings of
these truths have not been a reality. The Civil Rights Act of
1964 courageously took a bold step towards righting that wrong.
wdesab.
But the stark fact remained that disabled people were still
victims of segregation and discrimination. This was intolerable.
So today's legislation finally guarantees that, under the law, no
American will ever again be deprived of their basic guarantee of
life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. III
This Act is powerful in its simplicity. It will ensure that
people with disabilities are given the basic guarantees for which
3
they have so long strived: independence, freedom of choice,
control of their lives, and the opportunity to blend fully and
equally into the rich mosaic of the American mainstream. III
PROVIDE
Legally, it will endow our disabled community with a
powerful expansion of protections and basic civil rights.
Specifically, it will guarantee fair and just access to the
fruits of American life which we all must enjoy: not only
broadened employment opportunities; but also meaningful access to
all aspects of society -- public accommodations; transit systems;
and communications networks.
It will enrich the quality of life of the nearly 43 million
WITH PHYSICAL al MENTAL DISABILITIES
Americans whose physical or mental disabilities limit their
by
activities. That's 18% of our population -- reaching across all
lines: age, race, faith, gender and economics. 11
The ADA bill is designed for those who had visions of the
stars but could not reach for them. It will help raise toward
their goal arms which could not move. It will cradle and steady
bodies which held hopes but no strength. It will light eyes
whose only sight had been inward; and support legs as they take
their first symbolic steps toward the future.
It will ease what the deaf-blind poet Robert Smithdas, the
American Poetry Society's Poet of the Year, calls "the silent
fog" of isolation.
AMERICANS
PERSONS) WITH DISABCLITIES
And it will ensure that disabled Americans become full
partners in the daily challenges and opportunities of our
American society. III
4
This Act is a dramatic renewal not only for those with
disabilities, but for all Americans. Today I reach out to
everyone. For this Act to succeed, we must all cooperate.
Together, we must remove the physical barriers we have created,
and the social barriers we have accepted.
This legislation empowers those who are disabled. But it
also challenges those of us unrestricted by physical or mental
disabilities. It challenges our nation to work together to
create a truly mainstreamed society. There are those who need
our help. We must give it gladly, for this will never be a truly
prosperous nation until all within it prosper.
This is not legislation designed for a few. It is a call to
fairness, equality and respect from every American to every other
American. It is an affirmation that every life in our splendid
nation is equal. It is an affirmation that every life is worth
saving, worth enhancing, worth living. III
We are, with this act, guaranteeing our diversity, our
compassion, our understanding, and our strength as a nation. We
must each of us strive to fulfill the spirit as well as the word
of this law. 11
After all, disabled Americans are the only minority group of
which any of us can become a member, at any moment in our lives.
With the birth of a child. In an accident driving home from
work. In a fall while painting the house. Through the aging
process. Or during a sudden illness. III
5
I want to say a special word to our friends in the business
community. You have in your hands the key to the success of this
Act: for you can unlock a splendid resource of untapped human
potential which, when freed, will enrich us all.
You have called for new sources of workers. Well, the
majority of our fellow citizens with disabilities are unemployed,
and they can -- and want to -- work. This is a tremendous pool
of people who will bring to jobs their diversity, loyalty, proven
low turnover rate and only one request: the chance to prove
themselves. 11
It costs almost $200 billion annually to support disabled
Americans -- in effect, to keep them dependent. When given the
opportunity to be independent, they will move proudly into the
economic mainstream of American life. 11
My friends, our problems are large, but our unified heart is
larger. Our challenges are great, but our will is greater. III
In our America, the most generous, optimistic nation on the
face of the earth, we must not -- and will not -- rest until
X
have
every man and woman with a dream has the means to achieve it. 111
Today, America welcomes into the mainstream of life our
disabled fellow citizens. We embrace you not for your
disabilities but for your abilities; not for your differences but
for our similarities; not for your past pain but for your future
dreams
Last year, we celebrated the victory of international
freedom. Even the able bodied could not scale the Berlin Wall to
FOR decAdes,
6
gain the elusive promise of independence that lay just beyond.
And so, together, we rejoiced when that barrier fell.
And now I sign legislation which takes a sledgehammer to
another Wall: one which has, for too many generations, separated
disabled Americans from the freedom they could glimpse but could
not grasp.
And once again we rejoice as this barrier falls, proclaiming
together: We will not accept, we will not excuse, we will not
tolerate discrimination against anyone ever again. III
God bless you. On behalf of America, I now raise my pen to
sign this bill and say: let the shameful wall of exclusion
finally come tumbling down.
*****
TO:
CHRISS
FROM:
BETH
SUBJECT: ADA INSERT
Attached is the material I'd like to add to give the ADA
speech more specific substance.
I have marked on this copy the suggested places for the two
inserts. All examples in Insert A are actual cases: the names
were not included in the material HHS sent, but they are tracking
them down.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 23, 1990
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
ROGER
B.
PORTER
RBP
1B/v
SUBJECT:
Signing of the ADA Bill
We have reviewed the draft remarks for the ADA signing
ceremony and strongly suggest that the following comments be
incorporated into the draft.
The persons attending this signing ceremony are
particularly sensitive to the nuances of language. The speech
should, therefore, use the generally accepted terms familiar to
the persons with disabilities community. We should be certain
that the tone of the remarks will not be construed as the least
bit patronizing. For that reason, I have several comments:
1. Several changes should be made to page 3. First, and most
importantly, the third and fourth full paragraphs should
be deleted. References to what certain bodies cannot do
will not be well received. Similarly, the quotation,
albeit from a poet with disabilities, is unnecessarily
downbeat.
2. The second full paragraph on page 3 should either be
deleted, or after the word "Americans" the first sentence
might read "with physical or mental disabilities". It is
not consistent with the focus of the legislation or the
views of the groups to reference a "limit on their
activities".
3. The second full paragraph on page 4 should also be
reworked. It is not appropriate to refer to those of us
without disabilities as "unrestricted by physical or
mental disabilities". The contrast, once again, is that
people with disabilities are restricted, which is
inconsistent with the sentiment behind the bill. Nor
should we refer to "those who need our help". This is a
bill about opportunity. It may be interpreted as
patronizing to talk about "helping people" whose aim is
independence.
4.
The last paragraph on page 4 could use the phrase that
these groups frequently use. That is, those of us without
disabilities are referred to as TABS - temporarily able-
bodied persons. I would also delete the reference to the
"birth of a child". The reference is unclear, and is a
-2-
very depressing thought for this event.
5.
On page 5, in the last full paragraph, I would delete all
but the first sentence. And in the last paragraph on page
5, I would delete the second and third sentences and
rewrite the first sentence to read something like, "Last
year, we celebrated the victory of international freedom
as the Berlin wall, the long-standing symbol of freedom
denied, fell."
6.
In the first paragraph, I suggest finding another word for
"tableau". This speech will be signed for the deaf and I
am not certain that "tableau" is a word which most signers
would routinely sign. This thought is a useful one to
keep in mind throughout the speech.
7.
Throughout the speech, there are references to "disabled
people". Persons with disabilities strongly prefer to be
referred to as "persons with disabilities" rather than
"disabled persons". I suggest each reference to "disabled
people" be replaced by "persons with disabilities".
8.
At page 2, in the first full paragraph, first sentence, a
word such as "comprehensive" should be added before
"declaration". Without such a modifier, the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, after which the ADA was
modeled, is diminished in its importance as a
breakthrough.
9.
In that same paragraph, Canada should be added to the list
of countries. Additionally, the end of that sentence
would flow a little better is after "they will" it read,
"propose similar laws.", and the rest of the sentence was
deleted.
10. Once again, in the last full paragraph on that page, the
term "disabled people" should be replaced by "persons with
disabilities".
If you have any questions or we can help in any other way,
please let me know.
CC: James W. Cicconi
Memorandum for David Demarest
From Chriss Winston
cw
Subject: ADA acknowlegements
I've sent the initial list of acknowlegements that Beth included.
These names were given to her by Evan Kemp and several others
close to this issue and the bill's passage.
As you will see, the list is endless and some of the potential
candidates for recognition not a particular plus.
Would you look this over and talk with Governor Sununu about it?
Document No. 59433
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
90 JUL24190 00 JUL 24 A9: 45
DATE: 7/18/90
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 12:00 NOON 7/23/90
SUBJECT: Presidential Remarks: Signing of the ADA Bill
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
CARD
UNTERMEYER
CICCONI
Rogers
DEMAREST
Winston
FITZWATER
Pinkerton
GRAY
HAGIN
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston no later than 12:00 NOON, MONDAY, JULY 23, 1990 with
an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
No
Connects
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Hinchliffe/Garmey)
July 18, 1990 4:00 p.m.
ADABILL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SIGNING OF THE ADA BILL
SOUTH LAWN
JULY 26, 1990
Thank you. And welcome to every one of you out there in
this splendid tableau of hope spread across the South Lawn. III
[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS]
Three weeks ago, we celebrated our nation's Independence
Day. Today, we're here to rejoice and be glad of another
Independence Day. One that is long overdue. One that is dawning
with a brilliant glow of promise -- a day on which doors too long
bolted, both physically and symbolically, are being thrown wide.
with today's signing of the landmark Americans with
Disabilities Act, the disabled population of our country is now
free to pass through these once closed doors into a bright new
era of equality, independence, and freedom. III
As I look around at all these joyous faces, I remember
clearly how many years of dedicated commitment have gone into
making this historic act a reality. It has been the work of a
true coalition. A strong, inspiring coalition of people who have
shared both a dream and the passionate determination to make that
dream a reality.
And it has been a coalition in the finest American spirit:
a joining of Democrats and Republicans; of the legislative and
executive branches; of federal and state agencies; of public
2
officials and private citizens; of people with disabilities and
without.
This historic ADA bill is the world's first declaration of
equality for people with disabilities. Its passage has made the
United States the international leader on this human rights
issue. This exciting accomplishment is more than a point of
light: it is a torchlight to the world. Already, several other
countries, including Sweden, Japan and the U.S.S.R., have
announced that they will introduce similar legislation in their
own governments. III
And it's all due to what our courageous pioneers wrote in
the Declaration of Independence: "We hold these Truths to be
self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are
endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights.' "
These brilliant words have been our guide for more than two
centuries as we have labored to form our more perfect union.
But, tragically, there have been those for whom the blessings of
these truths have not been a reality. The Civil Rights Act of
1964 courageously took a bold step towards righting that wrong.
But the stark fact remained that disabled people were still
victims of segregation and discrimination. This was intolerable.
So today's legislation finally guarantees that, under the law, no
American will ever again be deprived of their basic guarantee of
life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. 111
This Act is powerful in its simplicity. It will ensure that
people with disabilities are given the basic guarantees for which
3
they have so long strived: independence, freedom of choice,
control of their lives, and the opportunity to blend fully and
equally into the rich mosaic of the American mainstream. 111
Legally, it will endow our disabled community with a
powerful expansion of protections and basic civil rights.
Specifically, it will guarantee fair and just access to the
fruits of American life which we all must enjoy: not only
broadened employment opportunities; but also meaningful access to
all aspects of society -- public accommodations; transit systems;
and communications networks.
It will enrich the quality of life of the nearly 43 million
Americans whose physical or mental disabilities limit their
activities. That's 18% of our population -- reaching across all
lines: age, race, faith, gender and economics. 11
The ADA bill is designed for those who had visions of the
stars but could not reach for them. It will help raise toward
their goal arms which could not move. It will cradle and steady
bodies which held hopes but no strength. It will light eyes
whose only sight had been inward; and support legs as they take
their first symbolic steps toward the future.
It will ease what the deaf-blind poet Robert Smithdas, the
American Poetry Society's Poet of the Year, calls "the silent
fog" of isolation.
And it will ensure that disabled Americans become full
partners in the daily challenges and opportunities of our
American society. 111
4
This Act is a dramatic renewal not only for those with
disabilities, but for all Americans. Today I reach out to
everyone. For this Act to succeed, we must all cooperate.
Together, we must remove the physical barriers we have created,
and the social barriers we have accepted.
This legislation empowers those who are disabled. But it
also challenges those of us unrestricted by physical or mental
disabilities. It challenges our nation to work together to
create a truly mainstreamed society. There are those who need
our help. We must give it gladly, for this will never be a truly
prosperous nation until all within it prosper. 11
This is not legislation designed for a few. It is a call to
fairness, equality and respect from every American to every other
American. It is an affirmation that every life in our splendid
nation is equal. It is an affirmation that every life is worth
saving, worth enhancing, worth living. III
We are, with this act, guaranteeing our diversity, our
compassion, our understanding, and our strength as a nation. We
must each of us strive to fulfill the spirit as well as the word
of this law.
After all, disabled Americans are the only minority group of
which any of us can become a member, at any moment in our lives.
With the birth of a child. In an accident driving home from
work. In a fall while painting the house. Through the aging
process. Or during a sudden illness. III
5
I want to say a special word to our friends in the business
community. You have in your hands the key to the success of this
Act: for you can unlock a splendid resource of untapped human
potential which, when freed, will enrich us all.
You have called for new sources of workers. Well, the
majority of our fellow citizens with disabilities are unemployed,
and they can -- and want to -- work. This is a tremendous pool
of people who will bring to jobs their diversity, loyalty, proven
low turnover rate and only one request: the chance to prove
themselves. 11
It costs almost $200 billion annually to support disabled
Americans -- in effect, to keep them dependent. When given the
opportunity to be independent, they will move proudly into the
economic mainstream of American life. 11
My friends, our problems are large, but our unified heart is
larger. Our challenges are great, but our will is greater. 111
In our America, the most generous, optimistic nation on the
face of the earth, we must not -- and will not -- rest until
every man and woman with a dream has the means to achieve it. 111
Today, America welcomes into the mainstream of life our
disabled fellow citizens. We embrace you not for your
disabilities but for your abilities; not for your differences but
for our similarities; not for your past pain but for your future
dreams. III
Last year, we celebrated the victory of international
freedom. Even the able-bodied could not scale the Berlin Wall to
6
gain the elusive promise of independence that lay just beyond.
And so, together, we rejoiced when that barrier fell.
And now I sign legislation which takes a sledgehammer to
another Wall: one which has, for too many generations, separated
disabled Americans from the freedom they could glimpse but could
not grasp.
And once again we rejoice as this barrier falls, proclaiming
together: We will not accept, we will not excuse, we will not
tolerate discrimination against anyone ever again. III
God bless you. On behalf of America, I now raise my pen to
sign this bill and say: let the shameful wall of exclusion
finally come tumbling down.
*****
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
90 JUL 25 P12:11
DATE: 7/25/90
---
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: A.D.A. SIGNING CEREMONY
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
CARD
UNTERMEYER
CICCONI
ROGERS
DEMAREST
WINSTON
FITZWATER
PINKERTON
GRAY
HAGIN
HOLIDAY
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 JUL 24 PM 8: 44
July 24, 1990
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
BETH HINCHLIFFE
BH
SUBJECT:
REMARKS FOR A.D.A. SIGNING CEREMONY
I. SUMMARY
On Thursday, July 26, 1990, at 10:00 AM, you will address
approximately 2000 guests on the South Lawn. Among those attending
will be the Vice President, members of your Cabinet including
Attorney General Thornburgh and Secretary Sullivan; a large
assembly of Senators and Congressmen including both minority
leaders and the ADA's sponsor Senator Harkin; active participants
in the disability rights movement including Pat Wright, Sandra
Parrino, Justin Dart, and Evan Kemp; and Americans with
disabilities from across the nation.
II. DISCUSSION
The attached remarks (12 minutes, cards) celebrate your
signing of the most comprehensive civil rights legislation since
1964: the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, S. 933. The
ADA has been called the Declaration of Independence, and Bill of
Rights wrapped into one for the 43 million American men, women,
and children who suffer from disabilities. The remarks focus on
what has become the theme of the disabled rights movement over the
last decade: the entry of Americans with disabilities into the
"mainstream" of society, as working, contributing, and equal
members of the community. The ADA represents a giant step towards
the fulfillment of this goal.
Finally, it should be noted that many people have expressed
gratitude for your role in the realization of this historic Act.
As one disabled veteran put it: this is the first time in the
history of our nation that the President of the United States has
taken the leading role in the development of a major civil rights
initiative.
(Hinchliffe/Garmey)
July 24, 1990 8:00 p.m.
ADABILL
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: SIGNING OF THE ADA BILL
SOUTH LAWN
JULY 26, 1990
Thank you. And welcome to every one of you out there in
this splendid scene of hope spread across the South Lawn. III
This is an incredible day -- especially for the thousands of
people across the nation who have given so much of their time,
their vision and their courage to see this Act become a reality.
11 You know, I started putting together a list of all the people
who should be mentioned today -- but when that list started
looking longer than the Senate testimony for the bill, I decided
I'd better give up or we'd never get out of here before sunset.
Seriously though, this is an immensely important day -- a
day that belongs to all of you. And everywhere I look, I see
people who have dedicated themselves to making sure this day
would come to pass. 11 My friends from Congress, who worked so
diligently, with the best interests of all of our people at
heart. 11 Members of my Administration, who brought their caring
and expertise to this fight. 11 So many dedicated organizations
for people with disabilities, who gave their time and their
strength. And, perhaps most of all, everyone out there and
others across the breadth of this nation -- our Americans with
disabilities. You have made this happen. 111
To all of you, I just want to say: your triumph is that
your bill will now be law. And that this day belongs to you. On
behalf of our nation, thank you. III
2
Three weeks ago, we celebrated our nation's Independence
Day. Today, we're here to rejoice in and celebrate another Inde-
pendence Day. One that is long overdue. One that is dawning with
a brilliant glow of promise -- a day when we are throwing open
doors too long bolted, both physically and symbolically.
with today's signing of the landmark Americans with
Disabilities Act, every man, woman and child with a disability
can now pass through these once closed doors into a bright new
era of equality, independence, and freedom.
As I look around at all these joyous faces, I remember
clearly how many years of dedicated commitment have gone into
making this historic new civil rights act a reality. It has been
the work of a true coalition. A strong, inspiring coalition of
people who have shared both a dream and the passionate
determination to make that dream come true.
And it has been a coalition in the finest American spirit:
a joining of Democrats and Republicans; of the legislative and
executive branches; of federal and state agencies; of public
officials and private citizens; of people with disabilities
and without.
This historic Act is the world's first comprehensive
declaration of equality for people with disabilities. Its
passage has made the United States the international leader on
this human rights issue. This exciting accomplishment is more
than a point of light: it is a torchlight to the world. Already,
leaders of several other countries, including Sweden, Japan, and
3
the U.S.S.R., and all 12 members of the European Economic
Community, have announced that they hope to enact similar laws.
Our success with this Act proves that we are keeping faith
with the spirit of our courageous forefathers who wrote in the
Declaration of Independence: "We hold these Truths to be self-
evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by
their Creator with certain unalienable Rights.
These words have been our guide for more than two centuries
as we have labored to form our more perfect union. But,
tragically, for too many Americans, the blessings of liberty have
been limited or denied. The Civil Rights Act of 1964
courageously took a bold step toward righting that wrong.
But the stark fact remained that people with disabilities
were still victims of segregation and discrimination. This was
intolerable. Today's legislation brings us closer to that day
when no Americans will ever again be deprived of their basic
guarantee of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. 111
This Act is powerful in its simplicity. It will ensure that
people with disabilities are given the basic guarantees for which
they have worked so long and so hard: independence; freedom of
choice; control of their lives; the opportunity to blend fully
and equally into the rich mosaic of the American mainstream.
Legally, it will provide our disabled community with a
powerful expansion of protections and basic civil rights. It
will guarantee fair and just access to the fruits of American
life which we all must be able to enjoy. Specifically:
4
First, the ADA ensures that employers covered by the act
cannot discriminate against qualified individuals with a
disability.
Second, the ADA ensures access to public accommodations
such as restaurants, hotels, shopping centers, and offices. 111
Third, the ADA ensures expanded access to transportation
services. III
And, fourth, the ADA ensures equivalent telephone services
for people with speech or hearing impairments. 111
These provisions mean so much to so many. To one brave girl
in particular, they will mean the world. Lisa Carl, a Washington
state teenager with Cerebral Palsy, now will always be admitted
to her hometown theater to watch the movies she loves. 111
Lisa, you might not have been able to enter your theater
before, but I tell you now: you are always welcome to enter the
White House. III
To all of you out there, and across the nation -- the nearly
43 million Americans with physical or mental disabilities -- I
assure you with pride that this landmark Act will enrich the
quality of your lives. 11 This is a day for all to celebrate: the
mainstreaming of 18% of our population, reaching across all
lines: age, race, faith, gender, economics.
Above all, we celebrate that the ADA will ensure that all of
our citizens with disabilities become full partners in the daily
challenges and opportunities of our American society. III
This Act is a dramatic renewal not only for those with
5
disabilities, but for all of us. Because, along with the
precious privilege of being an American, comes a sacred duty: to
ensure that every other American's rights are also guaranteed.
To make this new Act work, each and every one of us must
rededicate ourselves to the essential principles upon which our
great land was founded. Together, we must remove the physical
barriers we have created, and the social barriers we have
accepted. For ours will never be a truly prosperous nation until
all within it prosper.
And for inspiration, we need look no further than our own
neighbors. With us this afternoon -- in that wonderful crowd out
there -- are people representing 18 of the Daily Points of Light
I have named over the last few months for their extraordinary
involvement with the disabled community. We applaud you and your
shining example.
But I want to tell you a wonderful story right now, a story
about children, a story that really touched me. Across the
nation, some 10,000 youngsters with disabilities are part of
Little League's Challenger Division. Their teams play just like
others, but -- and this is the most extraordinary part -- as they
play, at their sides are volunteer buddies from conventional
Little League teams. All of these players work together: they
team up to wheel around the bases; to field grounders together;
most of all, to play and become friends. 11
We must let these children be our guides and inspiration.
I also want to say a special word to our friends in the
6
business community. You have in your hands the key to the
success of this Act: for you can unlock a splendid resource of
untapped human potential that, when freed, will enrich us all.
I know there have been concerns that the ADA may be vague,
or costly, or may lead to litigation. But I want to reassure you
right now that my Administration and Congress have carefully
crafted this Act. We have all been determined to ensure that it
gives business flexibility, particularly in terms of the
timetable of implementation. And we have been committed to
containing the costs that may be incurred.
And this Act does something important for American business.
You've called for new sources of workers. Well, many of our
fellow citizens with disabilities are unemployed. They want to
work -- and they can work. This is a tremendous pool of people
who will bring to jobs diversity, loyalty, proven low turnover
rate and only one request: the chance to prove themselves. 11
When you add together federal, state and other funds, it
costs almost $200 billion annually to support Americans with
disabilities -- in effect, to keep them dependent. When given
the opportunity to be independent, they will move proudly into
the economic mainstream of American life. 11
My friends, our problems are large, but our unified heart is
larger. Our challenges are great, but our will is greater. III
In our America, the most generous, optimistic nation on the
face of the earth, we must not - and will not -- rest until every
man and every woman with a dream has the means to achieve it.111
7
Today, America welcomes into the mainstream of life all of
our fellow citizens with disabilities. We embrace you for your
abilities AND for your disabilities; for our similarities AND for
our differences; for your past courage and your future dreams.
Last year, we celebrated the victory of international free-
dom. Even the strongest person could not scale the Berlin Wall
to gain the elusive promise of independence that lay just beyond.
And so together we rejoiced when that barrier fell.
Now I sign legislation which takes a sledgehammer to another
Wall: one which has, for too many generations, separated disabled
Americans from the freedom they could glimpse but could not grasp
And once again we rejoice as this barrier falls, proclaiming
together: We will not accept, we will not excuse, we will not
tolerate discrimination in America. III
On behalf of this great country, I now lift my pen to sign
this bill and say: let the shameful wall of exclusion finally
come tumbling down. God bless you all.