United Spinal Association abhors and decries the murder of George Floyd and other black Americans subjected to systemic racism by law enforcement.
Up to 50% of people killed by US law enforcement are people with disabilities, according to a Ruderman Family Foundation 2015 white paper. Of these, black and brown people comprise a disproportionate share.
As Americans celebrate the heroism of essential workers during the COVID-19 crisis, many of whom are ethnic minorities, we must demand systemic change to address the disproportionate lack of access to healthcare, loss of life and rate of arrest and incarceration in their communities.
We call on the US Congress to conduct hearings to expose systemic racism and discrimination, propose equitable solutions to systemic problems and address the specific problem of racism and disability discrimination in law enforcement.
United Spinal Association expresses its solidarity with those peacefully exercising their First Amendment rights. As President George H.W. Bush said on July 26, 1990, at the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) signing, “Let the shameful wall of exclusion finally come tumbling down.” On this 30th anniversary of the ADA, we pledge to work to ensure the rights of all Americans to live freely and safely in their communities, regardless of race or disability.
James Weisman
President/CEO