President proclaims International Persons with Disabilities Day
President Barack Obama released a proclamation last week in support of International Persons with Disabilities Day. You can read the proclamation here. In it, President Obama states:
Each year, the United States joins with the international community to celebrate the inherent dignity and worth of every person. In America and in countries around the world, individuals with disabilities support families, strengthen their communities, and contribute to the global economy. On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we reaffirm the fundamental principle that those with disabilities are entitled to the same rights and freedoms as everyone else: to belong and fully participate in society, to live with respect and free from discrimination, and to make of their lives what they will.
At Seattle Central College, we work every day to support students and community members with disabilities. Our Disability Support Services (D.S.S.) fosters a community where students have an opportunity to fully participate in all aspects of campus life. The D.S.S. office provides counseling, advising, and accommodations for students with disabilities.
Our Mainstay program also supports people with disabilities in reaching financial and personal independence by matching them with gainful employment in the competitive workplace. Mainstay’s program, S.A.I.L.S. (Supported Academics and Independent Life Skills) provides customized support designed to empower Seattle Central students with Autism Spectrum Disorder to reach their highest potential in college and their career.