(July 10, 2014) American Legion National Commander Daniel M. Dellinger is calling on the Senate to ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) before the month is out. Commander Dellinger is also strongly urging all Legionnaires and veteran advocates to contact their U.S. senators immediately to ask them to support ratification. An international disability treaty inspired by U.S. leadership in recognizing the rights of people with disabilities, the CRPD creates a framework for legislation and policies around the world to improve the lives of all people with disabilities, including millions of disabled American veterans who travel abroad. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was the model for the CRPD, and the treaty echoes its values of independence and respect for persons with disabilities, as well as reasonable accommodations. The U.S. Armed Forces stand for the importance of promoting human rights and dignity around the world, and in the power of the United States to be a leader in the fight for these ideals. Supporting the CRPD is in keeping with these ideals. By ratifying it, the U.S. would not only clearly demonstrate its commitment to protecting the rights of people with disabilities but would have the opportunity to participate in the discussions going on at the international level about how to best promote and protect those rights in practice. Some have expressed misgivings about the treaty. However, The American Legion is confident these concerns can be addressed by the adoption of a set of treaty conditions called reservations, understandings and declarations. These protect U.S. sovereignty, ensure parental rights and recognize the treaty as a nondiscrimination instrument, similar to the landmark ADA. Furthermore, the CRPD has bipartisan support. More than 700 American organizations, including over 20 of the top veterans organizations, faith-based groups, civil rights organizations, disability groups, and business leaders like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce have pledged their support to this treaty. Please stand with Commander Dellinger by contacting your Senators now and ask them to pass CRPD now. (If received by email, scroll up and click the Take Action link, otherwise see below and send a prepared message to your senators. Also, Like this on Facebook. Twitter #CRPD) | 
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