During these troubled times June 3, 2020

Our country is going through one of the most difficult times in our history.

As we approach the tail end of battling a pandemic which has killed more than 100,000 Americans, we come face to face with the harsh realities of racial and social inequalities plaguing our law enforcement and justice systems. The unconscionable and brutal killing of George Floyd as he repeatedly cried, “I CAN’T BREATHE” at the hands of a police officer, is a stark reminder that our nation has much more to do to ensure the human and civil rights of all Americans, particularly those of people of color. IAHD has always fought for the disenfranchised in our society; those who have been invisible and marginalized.

Today, we also stand with the countless victims who have suffered grave injustices
at the hands of those in power.

We stand with people of color who are the victims of racial bias in our law enforcement and justice systems every day. We stand with those protesting the evils of racism and the most recent heinous act which resulted in Mr. Floyd’s death.

IAHD will not remain silent, standing alongside those demanding systemic change.

However, we do not condone violence as a means to an end.

We must use our anger and passion to impact change in a productive and constructive way. It is our hope that this most recent tragedy ignites a passion and commitment to examine and alter the underlying systems which have led to suffering and countless unnecessary deaths.

IAHD stands ready to work with those committed to making these critical changes. We stand for justice for people with disabilities and people of color, but of course, social justice must be realized for ALL people who are marginalized in our society.

Omayra Andino
Chief Executive Officer