On July 4, 2026, we will publish the Declaration of Interdependence — a proclamation recognizing people with disabilities as an essential part of "We The People." We invite you to read the draft below and share your feedback. Your input will help shape this historic document.
We the people with disabilities united in boundless spirit, vibrant diversity and shared humanity, rise on this historic occasion — the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence — to proclaim our Declaration of Interdependence. In the radiant light of that revolutionary document, which boldly affirmed the inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, we weave our voices into the ever-evolving American tapestry. With hearts ablaze and hope unyielding, we declare our unwavering commitment to a future forged in mutual reliance, boundless inclusion, and the transformative power of unity.
Whereas, we celebrate that true independence is not a solitary endeavor but a symphony of interconnected souls, strengthened by community, sustained by compassionate systems, and elevated by the shared dreams of our fellow citizens. From the dawn of our nation, independence has been rooted in the sacred bonds of interdependence.
Whereas, for 250 years, people with disabilities have faced systemic barriers — enduring the shadow of discrimination, exclusion, and dehumanization.
Whereas, we have overcome the segregation of children with disabilities from public education, the institutionalization of hundreds of thousands, and employment barriers. Architectural, attitudinal, and policy obstacles have long denied us access to transportation, housing, healthcare, and the full embrace of civic life.
Whereas, our disabilities — whether visible or invisible, physical, sensory, cognitive, or intellectual — are threads in the rich fabric of our identities. They shape our perspectives but never define our worth, limit our potential, or diminish our sacred right to belong fully in society.
Whereas, our journey toward equality shines with triumphs — from the landmark passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act to the tireless march toward a more perfect union, where accessibility, dignity, and opportunity illuminate the path forward.
Whereas, interdependence is the heartbeat of progress, where every individual, regardless of ability, contributes to and is uplifted by the collective strength of our nation.
With open hearts, we pledge to nurture solidarity among ourselves and with all Americans, knowing our strength blooms in collaboration. We honor the caregivers, advocates, and allies whose unwavering support amplifies our voices and who rightly share in our triumphs and struggles.
We summon the courage to demand the enforcement and evolution of laws that safeguard our rights, dismantle disparities, and champion economic opportunity and social equality. We envision a nation where disability is not a barrier but a reflection of our distinctiveness celebrated as a vital part of our shared story.
We claim our inalienable right to fully participate in the vibrant mosaic of American life — education, employment, healthcare, transportation, technology, and public spaces — free from barriers and the sting of discrimination. We call for universal design and policies that ensure every soul is seen, valued, and included.
We dream boldly of an America where interdependence is the cornerstone of democracy — a nation where responsibility, innovation, and empathy converge to create boundless opportunities, and where every person's unique contributions are cherished as a spark of collective greatness.
As we honor 250 years of American independence, we dedicate ourselves to building a future where people with disabilities are empowered to dream without limits, create with passion, and thrive in a society that uplifts every soul. Together, we forge a legacy of hope, unity, and unstoppable progress.
In witness whereof, we, the People with Disabilities, through Able 250, raise our voices in this Declaration of Interdependence, calling upon our fellow Americans to join us in this sacred mission. Let us unite, hand in hand, heart to heart, to forge a beacon of hope for the world. This is our shared promise as we celebrate and boldly create the next chapter of the American story.
Proclaimed with unwavering resolve this 4th day of July, 2026,
by ABLE250©, on behalf of America's People with Disabilities
Your perspective is essential. Please share your thoughts, suggestions, or edits below. We will also send you the final Declaration when it is published on July 4, 2026.