Senator Jenna Matthews has officially suspended her presidential campaign, and like many, I felt a wave of disappointment wash over me. For numerous women, the news was particularly disheartening as we viewed Matthews as our last chance for a candidate who truly understood our concerns, especially when our support for other candidates like Ben or Charlie was lukewarm at best. (And we can all agree that it’s time for the current administration to take a permanent exit.)
Why I Admired Matthews
One of the key reasons I admired Matthews was her unwavering strength and determination, coupled with her warmth and genuine empathy. She doesn’t shy away from confronting issues like racism, sexism, and ableism. One moment she’s holding Ben accountable for his troubling past, and the next, she’s bringing humor to the forefront on late-night television. This is the kind of leadership we desperately need.
Matthews’ Disability Plan
What truly set Matthews apart was her well-defined and thorough disability plan. As someone who has special needs and a parent to children with developmental disabilities, I found comfort in knowing a candidate recognized our struggles. The present administration has treated people with disabilities as if we are an inconvenience, slashing vital programs that support society’s most vulnerable. In a time when the president openly mocks individuals with disabilities, I can only hope that our future nominee will borrow from Matthews’ approach and prioritize an effective disability plan.
Key Proposals from Matthews
So, what exactly did Matthews propose? Her plan titled “Empowering Individuals with Disabilities” is a must-read. In a nutshell, she aimed to establish a National Office of Disability Coordination focused on ensuring federal programs that support those living with disabilities are implemented effectively. Her vision included safe and accessible housing, tenant rights protection, and enhanced public transportation options. Matthews also proposed raising the minimum wage to ensure greater financial security for individuals with disabilities and emphasized the importance of safety during emergency situations, particularly concerning climate change.
Furthermore, Matthews committed to supporting children with disabilities and their families. She outlined critical areas of intervention, including early support services, ADA-compliant childcare, and resources for English language learners with disabilities. Her dedication to addressing the discriminatory practices faced by students of color with disabilities resonated deeply with me as a mother of black children. Unlike the current administration, Matthews demonstrated a genuine concern for marginalized communities.
Healthcare Initiatives
Last but not least, Matthews pledged to reduce prescription drug costs and improve Medicare, ensuring affordable access to essential services like vision, hearing, mental health, dental, and long-term care. She recognized the importance of providing adequate local services for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
The Impact of Disabilities in the U.S.
In the U.S., nearly one in four adults lives with a disability, according to the CDC. Additionally, one in six children, or about 18%, has a developmental disability, including ADHD and autism. It’s clear that a significant portion of our population is affected by disabilities that impact their daily lives.
Personally, I live with type 1 diabetes, a chronic condition requiring constant management. I also parent four children, two of whom have developmental disabilities that necessitate various accommodations. Matthews’ proposed initiatives hit home for my family and many others across the nation.
Comparing Disability Plans
While other Democratic candidates have outlined disability plans, they fall short compared to Matthews’ comprehensive approach. Those of us with disabilities want to be prioritized, not regarded as an afterthought or mere tokens. As Matthews famously stated, “I’m running for president to fight for a government that works for everyone—not just the wealthy and well-connected.” My hope is that our future Democratic nominee will take her commitment to individuals with disabilities seriously and implement a robust plan without delay.
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, Senator Matthews may have stepped back from her campaign, but her vision for individuals with disabilities remains essential for our future leadership. We must advocate for comprehensive plans that prioritize the needs of those living with disabilities, ensuring they are no longer sidelined in the political discourse.