Statement by AERA Executive Director Felice J. Levine on the U.N. International Day of Persons with Disabilities


 

 

 

 

For Immediate Release: December 3, 2021

Contact:
Tony Pals, tpals@aera.net
(202) 238-3235


Statement by AERA Executive Director Felice J. Levine on the U.N. International Day of Persons with Disabilities

December 3, 2021

Since 1992, the United Nations has designated December 3 as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, aiming to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of individuals with disabilities. On this day, AERA and the field of education research join in affirming our deep commitment to supporting those in our communities who live with disabilities, to celebrating their contributions, and to recognizing the benefits that come from the full integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of society and life.

AERA is committed to inclusion and we value the contributions that individuals with disabilities bring to our research community. We also understand the challenges and barriers for people who live with disabilities in accessing educational opportunities in the United States and worldwide.

The global crisis brought by the COVID pandemic has exacerbated inequalities in education and many other aspects of society, for those from underserved and under-supported populations. People with disabilities are one of the most excluded groups in society and are among those who have been affected the most during the pandemic. Even before the COVID crisis, they were less likely to access education and to participate in their communities.  

AERA is steadfast in our support for inclusivity and the active participation of persons with disabilities not only in the scholarly enterprise but throughout all of society. We call on the wider research community to join us in celebrating the contributions of those with disabilities and advancing scholarship and evidence that examines barriers, challenges, and opportunities for these individuals and that informs best practices and policies for supporting them.

 

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About AERA
The American Educational Research Association (AERA) is the largest national interdisciplinary research association devoted to the scientific study of education and learning. Founded in 1916, AERA advances knowledge about education, encourages scholarly inquiry related to education, and promotes the use of research to improve education and serve the public good. Find AERA on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram.