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Howard Dean Marks Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

July 26, 2007

Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean today marked the 17th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act by calling for the passage of the ADA Restoration Act of 2007. Dean issued the following statement:

“Today marks the 17th anniversary of a truly great day in American history, a day when leaders from both sides of the aisle came together around a commitment to protecting the rights of all Americans. The Americans with Disabilities Act was a milestone in the fight for equal opportunity, full participation in society, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for millions of Americans with disabilities. We are still a long way from making that ideal a reality, but Democrats remain committed to the cause.

“I am proud that strong Democratic leaders like Congressman Steny Hoyer and Senator Tom Harkin have chosen today to commemorate the enactment of the ADA by introducing bipartisan legislation, the ADA Restoration Act of 2007, to restore rights that have been taken away by President Bush’s radical court appointees and by the President’s reckless budget cuts that gut key programs. Now, with thousands of wounded and disabled veterans returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan, a new generation of Americans with disabilities demands a renewed commitment to the ADA. Republicans need to follow the lead of Republicans like Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner and Senator Arlen Specter by supporting the ADA Restoration Act of 2007. Together, we can send a clear message that we will not rest until the original promise of the Americans with Disabilities Act is realized and the fundamental rights of all Americans are protected.”