Presidential Message on International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Donald J. Trump, President
December 3, 2020
Today, in the United States and around the world, we celebrate the inherent dignity and contributions of persons with disabilities. Our families and communities are enriched by their presence in our lives, and we are inspired by how they teach us to accept challenges with grace and humility. We honor them and their tremendous strength, resilience, and skill, and we remain steadfast in our work to remove societal barriers to their success so they may pursue their full potential.
As part of these efforts, my Administration has made defending the inherent value of every individual a top priority. Alongside faith and community leaders, we have fought to uphold the sanctity of life while promoting a culture of respect for the immutable worth and potential of every human being. No one should be denied the opportunity to experience the fullness of life, receive care, or have the chance at economic success because of a disability. Together, we have bridged gaps in our workforce by expanding apprenticeship programs, providing many Americans—including those with disabilities—the opportunity to develop the skills and tools necessary to grow and thrive in innovative ways. Eleven departments and agencies have participated in the Multi-Agency Task Force on Increasing Employment Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities to help accomplish this goal.
On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we remain steadfast in our commitment to honoring the God-given potential of all human beings. Together, the United States joins other nations around the world in recognizing the valuable contributions of persons with disabilities and in working toward a brighter future for all.(https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/presidential-message-international-day-persons-disabilities-2020/)
Press Statement
Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State
December 2, 2020
December 3 is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a fitting occasion for the United States to reaffirm its commitment to, and support for, the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in daily life of the community. We point with pride to robust public and private enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act and to other federal, state, and local laws that guarantee open and equal access to facilities, markets, jobs, goods, and services.
It is also a fitting occasion to reaffirm that all members of the human family are “created equal, and are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” Each individual must have an equal opportunity to develop his or her unique talents and must be free to pursue their dreams.
We applaud the participation and leadership of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations in efforts to assure equal access and opportunity, and we recognize those whose vision and hard work are the basis for the technologies on which we rely to ensure that no one is left behind.
On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I am proud to announce the opening of the Access Center at the U.S. Department of State, an interactive facility showcasing assistive technologies that remove barriers for our employees with disabilities. The United States reaffirms our commitment to promoting and protecting the human rights of all and to achieving equal opportunity in education, employment, and participation in civic life for persons with disabilities.(https://www.state.gov/international-day-of-persons-with-disabilities-4/) .