31/01/2025
Our hearts at the California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC) go out to all those affected by the tragedy of the passenger plane and military helicopter fatal collision on January 29th at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). In times of grief, our focus should be on unity and support, which makes it particularly egregious that this disaster is being politicized by President Trump to further his administration’s harmful agenda. His baseless attempt to falsely link inclusive hiring policies for individuals with disabilities to this tragic accident is not only offensive but profoundly misleading.
By suggesting that the inclusion of qualified individuals with disabilities in the federal workforce compromises safety, the president is perpetuating harmful and dangerous stereotypes. These remarks undermine decades of hard-fought progress toward equity, opportunity, and inclusion for people with disabilities. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) is about ensuring that all individuals—including those with disabilities—are hired based on their qualifications and abilities, not their perceived limitations. Any attempt to scapegoat marginalized communities in moments of national tragedy is reprehensible and must be met with unequivocal condemnation.
CFILC stands firmly against this discriminatory rhetoric and reaffirms our commitment to a world where all people—regardless of ability—are valued, respected, and protected from harm. The disability community is strong, capable, and essential to every sector, including government service. We call on leaders, advocates, and allies to reject these falsehoods and stand with us in defending disability rights.
It is our collective responsibility to speak out against these injustices, challenge misinformation, and continue building a society that uplifts and empowers all its members.