Action Alert - Help build support in Congress for the CRPD

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Lets Build Support in Congress Now

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."

-Margaret Mead

Dear Fellow Advocates/Activists,

The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has acheived groundbreaking international support since it opened for signatures on March 30, 2007. As of today, 118 nations have taken the first step and become signatories to the Convention & 7 have gone further and ratified it. The Optional Protocol, which will serve as the treaty's enforcement mechanism, has enjoyed 67 signatures and 3 ratifications. The Convention requires 20 ratifying member nations before it can enter into force and become international law.

Despite this monumental accomplishment of 21st century civilization, which largely included people with disabilities from all over the world, the Bush Administration has failed to sign the Convention on behalf of the US. At this point, the disability community is looking to build support in both the House and Senate in preparation for what we hope to be a speedy signing and ratification of this historic Convention with the new administration in early 2009.

Click Take Action to tell your congressional delegation that you want them to actively support this progressive piece of human rights legislation, and move it through the ratification process quickly.

Also, disability community leaders, organizations, activists, and advocates from across our country have joined together to create the RatifyNow.org website, to educate and encourage grassroots ratification efforts. Check it out!

In Solidarity,

Joe and Pam VanderVeer