Date: Monday, June 3, 2013
Category: General

The Convention on the Rights of Disabilities (CRPD) is an international treaty that outlines the obligations of ratifying countries to promote, protect, fulfill and ensure the rights of people with disabilities.  President Obama signed the treaty in 2009, but it still requires U.S. Senate ratification. A vote was held on December 4, 2012, but fell five votes short of ratification.  

Advocates are now hoping to have a hearing in June 2013 in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, as a first step to schedule another vote. Advocates are urging supporters to contact their Senators, visit their Senators' offices, send e-mails, and talk to press and media in their respective states. Disability advocates have ben told by senators and their staffs that "we have not decided yet."

To find out how to contact your Senator, please click here.

To read RESNA's statement about the last vote for the treaty, expressing "profound disappointment," please click here.

To see how your Senator voted on the treaty, click here.   

If you need assistance in organizing, click here to contact the U.S. International Council of Disabilities.