Press Releases

The United States International Council on Disabilities Mourns the Passing of our board member, friend, and U.S. and global disability rights activist, Judith Heumann.

Judith Heumann spent most of her life advocating tirelessly on behalf of all people with all disabilities in the U.S. and globally. She influenced countless people and policies with her actions and her deep commitment to advocacy, equity, and leadership. Read more…

The United States International Council on Disabilities Calls for the Protection and Safety of Ukrainians with Disabilities

It has been thoroughly documented that people with disabilities suffer disproportionate harm in situations of armed conflict. They can be left behind in the planning and evacuation efforts and are often unable to access emergency communications, medical aid, and humanitarian aid. The United States International Council on Disabilities (USICD) calls for full inclusion of Ukrainian organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) in rapid response teams and evacuation efforts. Ukrainians with disabilities must not be forgotten, abandoned, and ignored. Read more…

The United States International Council on Disabilities mourns the death of its long-time friend Senator Bob Dole.

Senator Bob Dole was a man with unwavering spirit and sense of right and wrong. Helping the United States International Council on Disabilities (USICD) for over 10 years after he retired from the Senate. He worked effortlessly to secure the ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Read more…

Sen. Casey, Rep. Titus Lead Bicameral Delegation in a Resolution in Support of International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Resolution Reaffirms U.S. Commitment to Disability-Inclusive International Development.

As individuals with disabilities continue to face unique struggles around the world, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and U.S. Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-1) led a bicameral delegation in the introduction of a resolution recognizing International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on December 3. The legislation highlights the unique struggles faced by individuals with disabilities and reiterates Congressional support for efforts to promote inclusivity and accessibility for people with disabilities around the world. Read more…

The United States International Council on Disabilities mourns the death of its Board member, long-time Past President, and co-founder, Marca Bristo

The United States International Council on Disabilities (USICD) mourns the death of its Board member, long-time past president, and co-founder, Marca Bristo. Her passing is a substantial loss for all those she touched with her advocacy, kindness, and powerful sense of what is right. USICD will honor her posthumously with its highest honor, the Dole-Harkin Award, at its annual gala in Washington, DC in December. 


Reps. Titus, Young Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Promote Disability Rights Worldwide

“Congresswoman Titus’ bill to establish the office is a breath of fresh air,” said U.S. International Council on Disabilities Executive Director Isabel Hodge. “Having a permanent office and special advisor has been something the disability community has wanted for a long time. The U.S. is currently absent from the global disability movement. As a result, foreign countries are going to other countries with less expertise and not receiving optimal results.”