Tom Harkin: “I urge my colleagues to support the nomination of Marca Bristo to serve as the Chair of the National Council on…”

“I urge my colleagues to support the nomination of Marca Bristo to serve as the Chair of the National Council on Disability. In my capacity as Chair of the Subcommittee on Disability Policy, I have known Marca for almost 6 years. She is a trusted advisor on matters relating to national disability policy. Marca has taught me that disability is a natural part of the human experience that in no way diminishes the fundamental right of individuals with disabilities to live independently, enjoy self-determination, make choices, contribute to society, and enjoy full inclusion and integration in all aspects of American society. Marca has also taught me that independent living, including consumer control, self-determination, self-help, peer support, and advocacy must be at the core of our Nation's disability policy. I believe that Marca's national leadership experience and proven ability to work with and motivate a wide mix of individuals, her managerial skills, experienced and lauded speaking style, and her standing in the disability community make her uniquely qualified for this role.”