[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 67 (Wednesday, May 25, 1994)]
[Senate]
[Page S]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: May 25, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
  CONGRATULATING MARCA BRISTO ON HER CONFIRMATION AS THE CHAIR OF THE 
                     NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY

  Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, I would like to congratulate Marca Bristo 
on her confirmation by the U.S. Senate on May 12, 1994 to serve as the 
Chair of the National Council on Disability.
  In my capacity as Chair of the Subcommittee on Disability Policy, I 
have known Marca for almost 6 years. She is a trusted adviser on 
matters relating to national disability policy.
  Marca has taught me that disability is a natural part of the human 
experience that in no way diminishes the fundamental right of 
individuals with disabilities to live independently, enjoy self-
determination, make choices, contribute to society, and enjoy full 
inclusion and integration in all aspects of American society.
  Marca has also taught me that independent living, including consumer 
control, self-determination, self-help, peer support, and advocacy must 
be at the core of our Nation's disability policy.
  I believe that Marca's national leadership experience and proven 
ability to work with and motivate a wide mix of individuals, her 
managerial skills, experienced and lauded speaking style, and her 
standing in the disability community make her uniquely qualified for 
this role.
  Marca is the president and chief executive officer of Access Living, 
a center for independent living in Chicago, IL. Marca is the recipient 
of numerous awards and honors, including the Distinguished Service 
Award of the President of the United States. Most recently, she 
received the highest award in the disability field, the Henry B. Betts 
Award.
  Again, I extend congratulations to my friend, Marca. I look forward 
to working with her as we continue our efforts to make the promises of 
the ADA realities for millions of people with disabilities in this 
country and around the world.

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