Washington, DC - The opportunity for everyone in America to enjoy equal rights in political, social, economic, and cultural life is central to our success as a nation. Passage of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act recognized that persons with disabilities have the same rights as other persons to full and equal participation in society.

Promoting and protecting the human rights and fundamental freedoms of persons with disabilities globally is a foreign policy priority of the Trump Administration. The Department of State works with foreign governments to promote inclusive policies; oppose discrimination everywhere in all its forms; assist foreign governments to develop and implement laws; support civil society; and encourage the private sector and governments to employ persons with disabilities.

On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we affirm our commitment to advance empowerment, dignity, and equal rights for persons with disabilities. We reiterate that all people, in every country, deserve full and equal access to all spheres of society.