George Herbert Walker Bush

“ The estimated 43 million Americans who have disabilities constitute a rich, yet too often untapped, national resource. Because each of these Americans, like every other citizen, is a full heir to the promise of "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness," our Nation has a solemn obligation to provide them with equal opportunities in education and employment. Doing so is not just in the best interest of the United States, it is also one of the best ways we can affirm our belief in the inherent rights and dignity of all individuals. ”

“ A little over a year ago, when I signed into law the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the world's first comprehensive declaration of equality for persons with disabilities, the United States became the international leader on this human rights issue. As other nations seek to bring their disabled citizens into the mainstream of national life, we can truly say that the Americans with Disabilities Act will affect the lives of millions of people around the globe. ”

“ No nation, no matter how wealthy, has ever been able to afford the waste of human talent and potential. That is particularly true today, as the world economy continues to grow in size and sophistication. If the United States is to remain strong and prosperous in the increasingly technological, increasingly competitive global marketplace, then we must employ the creativity, energy, and skills of all of our citizens—including the millions of Americans with disabilities who are both eager and able to work. ”