Disabilities

People with disabilities constitute a group that crosses lines of age, ethnicity, gender, race, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. Disability may be visible or not; it may be long-term or short-term; it may be present from birth or acquired. Most importantly, it encompasses more than the medical aspects of physical, sensory, mental and cognitive conditions. And we all have a personal stake in this community that is open to anyone who might experience an accident, illness, genetic difference or the effects of aging.

Notwithstanding great strides made in disability rights in many countries over the past 25 years, the majority of people with disabilities are the poorest, most un- and under-employed and least well educated minority group in the U.S. and the world--due largely to unequal opportunities. People with disabilities constitute the largest minority in the United States, making up an estimated 20 percent of the total population. World-wide, over 600 million people have disabilities, and eighty percent live in developing countries. A leading cause of poverty, disability has a multiplier effect. that leads to additional disabilities resulting from poor living conditions, dangerous employment, malnutrition, poor access to health care and education, and increased vulnerability to sexual violence.

The UN's recent adoption of a convention on the human rights of people with disabilities signals to the world a new paradigm that many people in the disability community worldwide have promoted for nearly three decades -- a paradigm that sees people with disabilities as participants in society with both rights and responsibilities like everyone else. Now, more than ever before, financial support of disability groups in the US and abroad can make an enormous difference in the lives of millions of people who want to be productive, contributing citizens of the world.

Source: Disability Funders Network