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April 5, 2007 Email Response of the U.S. State Department to Disability Advocate’s Request for Explanation "USUN, PublicAffairs" < USUNPublicAffairs@state.gov > 4/5/2007 11:31 AM Thank you for your message to Ambassador Wolff concerning the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Early in the negotiations for the Convention, the U.S. delegation stated that given the complexity of regulations and enforcement mechanisms needed to ensure equal opportunity for those with disabilities, it would be more productive for nations to pursue reforms at home rather than negotiate a new United Nations convention. For this reason, the U.S. stated that it did not intend to become party to the Convention. At the same time, the United States joined constructively in the work of the Committee during the negotiations of the treaty, including the sharing of our experiences and offering technical assistance upon request on key principles and elements. We feel that our involvement has improved the treaty. Specifically, we provided technical advice, drawing on our experience in disabilities law and policy, and highlighted a number of issues for members of the Ad Hoc Committee to consider. There is much to be proud of in the document, including its principles of equality and non-discrimination and the strong provisions on important subjects, including political participation, access to justice, accessibility, health, the crucial role of the family, and end of life issues. We can be proud of our nation's commitment to the rights and dignities of persons with disabilities, which is embodied in the vast array of strong national laws, notably the historic Americans with Disabilities Act. The United States has shown strong leadership in combating discrimination and inequality on the basis of disability. In 2001, President Bush announced the New Freedom Initiative designed to expand the potential for disabled persons to access technologies, education, workplace and homeownership opportunities, as well as new technologies. We appreciate your interest in this important issue.
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