On Friday, November 2, 2007 an important Presidential Candidates' Forum was held to address the issues related to people with disabilities. It was hosted by The Granite State Independent Living Center in Manchester, New Hampshire. There were eight Presidential Candidates in attendance, each spoke of what national changes they would make to encourage total inclusion for people with disabilities. This forum was designed to make the candidates aware that people with disabilities have rights that have been ignored far too long, and to unite people with disabilities to create a cohesive voting voice.
Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, Senator John Edwards and Governor Bill Richardson all stated that they would make the Federal Government a model employer of people with disabilities. Senator Joe Biden reminded us of the nation's core values of equality and dignity for all. Congressman Dennis Kucinich voiced, like many others, the need for universal health care coverage. Senator Mike Gravel proposed that policy decisions should be made through a direct vote by the people. Senator Christopher Dodd mentioned his role as a co-sponsor of the original Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and his involvement with the passage of the Family and Medical Leave Act.
Each of the candidates was provided a list of questions for the forum. Questions to the candidates.
The answers to these questions are provided here with a side by side response from the candidates.
National Forum on Equality, Opportunity, and Access - Candidate Promises
Ron Paul Responses
Senator John McCain Responses
Senator Hillary Clinton Responses
Senator Barack Obama Respones
Disclaimer
All current candidates have been given the same opportunity to answer the same American Association of People with Disabilities’ ( AAPD ) questionnaire posted on the website. Information posted reflects candidates who have answered the questionnaire. AAPD is continuing to solicit answers from candidates who have not responded.
According to The Granite State Independent Living Center, the entire program is available via download at www.manchesteraccess.com.
As 2008 approaches individuals will have a chance to express themselves by voting for the next President of the United States. Now is the time to do your research and learn about the candidates, so that you can make informed decisions to vote at the primaries and the National Election.
