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A Resolution of the City Commission declaring Principles of Inclusion for individuals with autism and other special needs, and urging action national, state, and local governments, businesses, and residential communities consistent with these principles.
(Sponsored by Commissioner Keon)
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April is National Autism Awareness Month, which provides an opportunity to reflect on the inherent dignity of all human beings, and the importance of including and accommodating children and adults on the autism spectrum, as well as children and adults with other special needs and disabilities in all aspects of daily life.
The United States of America is a signatory of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (the “Convention”), which supports inclusion and accommodation of children and adults with special needs and disabilities. The Convention has identified the following core principles of inclusion:
a. Respect for inherent dignity, individual autonomy including the freedom to make one's own choices, and independence of persons;
b. Non-discrimination;
c. Full and effective participation and inclusion in society;
d. Respect for difference and acceptance of persons with disabilities as part of human diversity and humanity;
e. Equality of opportunity;
f. Accessibility;
g. Equality between men and women;
h. Respect for the evolving capacities of children with disabilities and respect for the right of children with disabilities to preserve their identities; and
The City is committed to the principles of inclusion as demonstrated through the Coral Gables Police Department's collaboration with the Disability Independence Group and UM-NSU CARD (Center for Autism and Related Disabilities) in the development of The Wallet Card Project of the Disability Independence Group, and related training videos, which is a nationally regarded program that assists individuals in informing governmental and police officials of their special needs throu...
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