Ayanna Pressley: “For too long, our policies and financial systems have exacerbated inequities and disparities throughout our country. I…”

“For too long, our policies and financial systems have exacerbated inequities and disparities throughout our country. I rise in support of our disabled neighbors who have been subjected to a second-class standard of living. By passing the Financial Services Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Economic Justice Act, the House will move one step closer to addressing these systemic injustices. Today, I rise in support of a series of amendments I have offered to advance disability justice. My amendments will prohibit financial creditors from discriminating against consumers who are disabled and increase access to interpretation services, including American Sign Language. My amendment will also hold corporations accountable to disclose the disability status, based on voluntary self-identification, of their board of directors and executive officers. The status quo will not change until we recognize that disability rights are human rights and call out and address the barriers the disability community faces. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support my amendments and support the underlying bill.”