[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1994, Book I)]
[April 29, 1994]
[Page 804]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



[[Page 804]]


Letter to Americans With Disabilities
April 29, 1994

    Greetings to everyone gathered in our nation's capital to voice your 
support for providing health security to all Americans. I am delighted 
that so many of you have come together for this exciting event.
    Now is the time to act on our awareness that disabilities are a 
natural part of the human experience. Having a disability does not 
diminish one's right to participate in any aspect of mainstream society. 
With the shared strengths of all those participating in this rally, you 
send a powerful message--the key to improving the quality of life for 
millions of Americans with disabilities and their families is passing a 
comprehensive health care plan that meets the needs of each one of our 
citizens.
    The active participation of groups like ADAPT, the National Council 
on Independent Living, and the Consortium of Citizens with Disabilities 
is essential in meeting this crucial goal. I commend you for working 
toward making health care reform a reality. Your knowledge and expertise 
are helping to advance the rights of and services for all Americans, 
especially those persons with disabilities, and I thank you for your 
leadership and dedication. Working together, we can build a health care 
system that moves our nation from exclusion to inclusion, from 
dependence to independence, and from paternalism to empowerment.
    Hillary joins me in extending best wishes to all for a successful 
rally.

                                                            Bill Clinton

Note: This letter was made available by the Office of the Press 
Secretary but was not issued as a White House press release.