For Katherine Norton, Other Disabled Americans, and Their Families
For Katherine Norton and Other Disabled Americans and Their Families*
By Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC)
Last year, my daughter Katherine was the Global Down Syndrome Foundation Ambassador of the year. Katherine, who lives with me, does quite all right, but unlike many disabled Americans, Katherine will never be fully independent.
However, many of her friends at the remarkable Art and Drama Institute, which she attends daily and equips disabled people to deal with the world in which they live, are close to achieving independence.
We lavish much deserved praise on the non-profits and charities that serve people who need their help. These irreplaceable, selfless groups often have tax relief. They would be the first to support Achieving a Better Life Experience, the ABLE Act Congress passed in December. It provides tax-free savings accounts for individuals with disabilities so that they and their families can save for their independence. Families of disabled loved ones want independence for them more than any single desire. Many now feel able because of the ABLE Act.
Congress listened to these families and to our disabled fellow Americans and let our good sense and our hearts respond.
*Adapted from remarks given at a White House celebration of the ABLE Act with Vice President Joe Biden.