(CNSNews.com) – President Donald Trump commemorated International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Sunday with a statement saying that “too many people around the world” believe that having a disability justifies “destroying precious human lives.”
“Too many people around the world hold the misguided view that disabilities justify degrading or destroying precious human lives or that people with disabilities should not be entitled to full participation in civic life,” he said in the statement. “This way of thinking will always be morally wrong and contrary to our Nation’s core values.
“As Americans, we must set the global standard for ensuring those with disabilities are treated with the dignity and respect that all people deserve. Working with other nations, we will advance the rights of people with disabilities around the world,” the president said.
Trump said his administration is “committed to expanding opportunities for Americans with disabilities.”
He touted an executive order he signed in June that expands apprenticeship programs, “giving more people—including those with disabilities—access to the relevant skills and tools needed to secure good jobs.”
“Through technological advancements, job training and educational opportunities, and increased engagement from business and community leaders, people with disabilities will continue to enrich our Nation and our world in new and innovative ways,” the president added.
The annual observance of the International Day of Disabled Persons began in 1992 by the United Nations. It was designed to “promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.”
“It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life,” the UN stated on its website.
This year’s theme is “Transformation towards sustainable and resilient society for all.”
“Today, in the United States and in nations near and far, we celebrate the valuable contributions and inherent dignity of people with disabilities. This year’s theme for International Day of Persons with Disabilities—transformation toward a sustainable and resilient society for all—underscores the importance of removing societal barriers that diminish opportunities for people with disabilities and their families,” Trump said.
“Today, we rededicate our efforts to uphold the principles of human dignity, empowerment, and opportunity for all,” he added.
https://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/melanie-arter/trump-too-many-people-justify-degrading-or-destroying-precious-human
