I’ve been following an unfolding struggle for civil rights both at the White House and on the steps of our nation’s capitol. Unfortunately, I didn’t hear about it on the radio; nor see it on T.V.; nor read the words of protesters in the newspaper. The participants: people with disabilities seeking to have their voices heard against the backdrop of a world of indifference. Ninety-one people with a diversity of impairments were arrested for having the courage to stand up for their beliefs. By chaining themselves to the White House fence, they made a statement which should resonate with those who are concerned about equal treatment for all our citizens.
Adapt demonstrators met with Obama officials on Monday and were told that their concerns to include long-term supports in current health care proposals would have to wait. “The administration stated that its only commitment currently
is to extend insurance to the people who are uninsured, and that the people in nursing homes and institutions would need to continue to wait until an unspecified
time in the future when it is proven that the health care reform worked.”
Nursing homes and other large institutions of “care” are often the most expensive and least appropriate places for people to live. Yet there appears to be an intensely entrenched bias which protects these institutions even in the face of considerable evidence that preferable alternatives exist.
If we are to have a truly national health plan than we must consider all of our citizens regardless of their living situation or health status. The Community Choice Act, currently being debated in congress is a first step in this direction. All of us may have the opportunity of being placed in a long-term nursing facility against our will. Current Medicaid rules only endorse this option.
Adapt’s recent press release provides more information on current advocacy activities. One may keep up with events as they happen by following ADAPT on Twitter.
While I do not feel empowered enough to be a protester and chain myself to a building, I fervently applaud those who have the courage to put their lives and reputations on the line for the things they believe. Thank you ADAPT members for your commitment and sacrifice .