Vol. 42, No. 4: Disability Rights Under Siege

Whither the Disability Rights Movement? The Future of Disability Rights Law

Eve Hill

With the changing political atmosphere, what does the future hold for civil rights laws protecting the disability community? In her article, Hill discusses legislation currently in place and how changes could damage the rights of those with disabilities.

The Promise of ABLE

Senator Robert P. Casey, Jr.

The passage of the ABLE Act allows individuals with disabilities and their families to save without losing eligibility to government programs, helping them to prepare for long-term needs and care.

Employment of People with Disabilities: Recent Successes and an Uncertain Future

Alison Barkoff, Emily B. Read

Employment is an important part of self-worth, particularly for disabled people. Unfortunately, this group is often at a disadvantage for job opportunities. However, recent laws, policy changes, and programs are helping to change that.

Disability

Accounting for Women and Girls with Disabilities in Conflict and Crisis Situations: Recommendations for Action and Implementation

Stephanie Ortoleva

Nearly 20 percent of women in the world are disabled. Ortoleva looks at the issues affecting disabled women and offers resolutions for including this population in conflict resolution efforts.

Disability

The Importance of Framing Federal Mental Health Policy within a Disability Rights Framework

Jennifer Mathis

To uphold strides made in recent legislation under the Obama administration that has expanded opportunities for people with disabilities, including those with psychiatric disabilities, it is imperative that government approach mental health from a disability rights perspective. Contrast this with policies focusing on “mental health” that tend to associate psychiatric disability with violence and crime.

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Mitigation Is the Heart and Soul of Just and Merciful Sentencing

Edward Monahan, James J. Clark

The criminal justice system has a tendency to focus only on the facts of the crime while ignoring the individual. Fair sentences require an understanding of the person being sentenced, along with the details of the crime.

Disability

Taking Intellectual Disability Seriously Shows Us that Education Is a Human Right

Sue Swenson

Americans, in large part, don’t know or understand their human rights. This is evident in the realm of public education of children with disabilities. A common understanding of human rights is needed to improve the lives of those with disabilities, and including children with disabilities in educational settings is a start.

Disability

The Self-Advocacy Movement: Changing the Face of Disability Policy

Ari Ne'eman

Growing political involvement from people with disabilities, called “self-advocates,” has helped to promote a more rights based approach to disability policy, pushing boundaries in community inclusion.

Disability

Reflections of Disability in the Mirror of Culture

Alexander Wohl

The relationship between a nation’s laws and culture can be seen in its treatment of individuals with disabilities. Wohl looks at how American life and culture reflect a history of discrimination, segregation, and neglect and how popular culture can shape the way our nation views and treats those with disabilities.

Disability

Human Rights Hero: Judy Heumann

Aram A. Schvey

In this issue, we honor Judy Heumann, who has worked tirelessly to pave the way for those with disabilities. With impressive political undertakings and a vision of inclusion, Heumann has made the world a more tolerant and fair place.