On July 26, 2023, Ambassador Francisco O. Mora, the U.S. Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS), delivered remarks at a reception honoring National Disability Independence Day and Disability Pride Month. The event was hosted by the Missions of the United States, Chile, and Uruguay to the OAS, along with the Art Museum of the Americas and the OAS Secretariat on Access to Rights and Equity.
The celebration marks the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) enacted on July 26, 1990. This legislation prohibits discrimination based on disability in line with other civil rights laws addressing race, sex, color, age, national origin, or religion. "Modeled on other civil rights laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, sex, color, age, national origin or religion," said Mora.
Ambassador Mora paid tribute to Judith “Judy” Heumann for her pivotal role in advocating for disability rights worldwide. Describing her as "the 'mother of the disability rights movement' and one of one of the protagonists of today’s film screening," he highlighted her contributions through various platforms including international conventions and initiatives within OAS.
The ambassador emphasized that Judy's recognition was about highlighting "the community of more than 1.3 billion people with disabilities around the world." He pointed out that in the Americas alone approximately 140 million people live with disabilities yet only a small percentage have access to necessary rehabilitation services.
He further stated that "at the OAS," there is a strong commitment from "the United States" towards ensuring disability rights are recognized as basic human rights across societies in collaboration with countries like Chile which plays a leading role in these efforts.
Ambassador Mora acknowledged significant gaps between commitments made by member states and real-life experiences faced by persons with disabilities due to persisting barriers such as prejudice and institutional challenges: "In spite of remarkable advances towards accessible and disability-inclusive societies... an enormous gap still remains."
He also underscored art's vital role in promoting awareness about disability issues through various forms such as memoirs or installations; noting its potential impact when supported properly: “With persistence these works have begun to chip away at ableist beliefs.”
Concluding his address before introducing Adriana Ospina from Art Museum Americas who would discuss their latest exhibit featuring Petrona Viera's work - entitled 'Petrona Viera: creación sin fin,' Ambassador Mora expressed gratitude towards attendees while urging collective action aimed at fostering inclusive environments throughout cultural institutions regionally: “Let this event today serve as a call-to-action —to address museum accessibility needs.”
The gathering concluded with an invitation extended toward participating guests encouraging them partake discussions following screenings centered around documentary ‘Crip Camp’ showcasing stories involving disabled youth striving equality against oppression during formative years.
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