In asserting, “[w]hen it comes to jobs, we’ve got to figure out how we get the minimum wage up and include people with disabilities…,” Senator Clinton took a monumental step in advocating for the civil rights of people with disabilities. Senator Clinton was referring to Section 14 (c) of the 78-year-old Fair Labor Standards Act, which permits such practices. Though deemed progressive when implemented in 1938, Section 14(c) is now widely considered detrimental in the fight for social equality and community integration among individuals with disabilities.

By denouncing this practice of “tiered minimum wages,” and thereby supporting competitive wages, we see mounting evidence that Senator Clinton is willing to invest in the wellness of the disability community. Senator Clinton recognizes our potential. She knows that we are capable of so much more than the low expectations to which we have been held.

The Center for Disability Rights applauds Senator Clinton for her efforts in helping people with disabilities become better equipped to live independently in the community, and we call upon all presidential hopefuls to join Hillary Clinton, as well as over 75 disability-centered organizations, in advocating for equality