Observance of International Day of Persons with Disabilities

International Day of Persons with Disabilities takes place on December 3rd. The 2008 theme is "Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities: Dignity and justice for all of us".

Parents of children and adults with disabilities in the United States have many things to be thankul for in comparison to many other countries. We actually have a working government that provides for the rights and services for people with disabilities. It may not be perfect, but it is a far cry from many other countries.

In observance of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, take a few minutes to take some action on an issue that is closest to your heart. Here are some suggestions for things you can do in the name of the day:
1. Write a letter to the editor of your newspaper about the event. Cite what is good in your state, and what needs to be improved for "Dignity and Justice for All of Us." A day like International Day of Persons with Disabilities gives all of us an "in" with the media. They are looking for time-sensitive, personal stories.
2. Contact your representatives to thank them for any of the work they have done in the area rights, education, and human dignity.
3. Host a small open house and invite other families of children and adults with disabilities, your case manager, your special ed teacher and anyone else who has supported your child.
4. Write a letter to your friends and family about the day, and why it is important to you and your child.
5. Start a blog and link your blog to this blog and hosts of others we are linked to that are highlighting the issues faced by our population.
6. Take a moment to be grateful for any support you do receive.

If we each do one small thing, it amounts to many voices.