Ever heard of the PVA? They represent all paralyzed Americans on the Hill. Stunt PVA Lifetime member
On 6/26/07, RollinOn <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Mark E. Smith has a blog in New Mobility magazine that's always interesting and his last one really got me thinking. Life at Large The Disability Dollar As A Cash Cow Jun 25 12:27 By Mark E. Smith If you have a problem, throw money at it – at least when it comes to disability-related politics. Here we are on the eve of another blockbuster of a campaign season, racing toward the nonstop political pandering that is the presidential primaries, then the big election of '08. But, for those with disabilities, where are we in the political power struggle – that is, which candidates are looking out for our economic and societal equity, like those looking out for virtually every other special-interest group, from tobacco companies to transgender constituents? We are nowhere to be found in the special-interest, cash-fed cow that is modern-day politics. We're still rolling around with picket signs, asking candidates and elected officials to just do the right thing, when such political tactics are, well, passé. What we need is our own formal advocacy, an AARP or NRA, that serves as our collective body, a political machine rolling through Capitol Hill, contributing cash, opening doors, shaking hands, and getting our agenda on the table. If expensive cigars and campaign contributions serve most other special-interests groups, then that's what we should do, too But, we're not in the game – namely because we're not willing, as a group, to put our campaign contributions where our complaints are. We don't run with the PAC, and we're not willing to flex our monetary muscle. And I don't get it. In 2008, clout over who's elected, who's defeated, and which legislation is supported will be written on checks during 2007. So why aren't we writing checks? Some will say that we're among the poorest of minority groups, with the highest unemployment rate, that we are at an economic disadvantage in the political process. But aren't we also among the largest minority groups, 46-million strong, including 12.6-million of us with severe disabilities? Even my poor math proves that if 200,000 of us – a fraction of those with disabilities – kick in $10 each, that's $2-million toward a focused special-interest group. Trust me, at a $5,000 contribution per candidate and official – which will typically get you access and an ear in some capacity – $2-million would go a long way toward the 2008 disability agenda and beyond. Now, you're probably thinking that all this sounds fine and dandy, but who's going to organize this disability political powerhouse that's going to spread goodwill and cash throughout Washington for those with disabilities? I say we start by enlisting the help of – and sending our support to – those carrying the picket signs. Mark Jackson RollinOn No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.476 / Virus Database: 269.9.9/870 - Release Date: 6/26/2007 10:07 AM
