UCP | LIVE Webchat: Protecting Medicaid across Faith Lines for People with Disabilities

Web Chat: Protecting Medicaid Across Faith Lines for People with Disabilities

Held on November 10, 2011, 1:30 p.m. EST

See below to scroll through the transcript, or email for a copy.

This aim of this web chat is to discuss current deficit reduction strategies while representing a broad cross-section of the nation’s various faith traditions.

Hosted by United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), and the Interfaith Disability Advocacy Coalition (IDAC) – a diverse, nonpartisan coalition of religious and religiously affiliated organizations whose core spiritual values affirm the rights and dignity of people with disabilities.

As the US Congress Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction (the “Supercommittee”) continues to deliberate and craft proposals concerning the federal budget, it is important that the voices of the faith community be a vibrant part of the national conversation. Americans of many faiths support policies and programs that promote independence and dignity for people with disabilities. Medicaid is a tool that enables millions of Americans with disabilities to enjoy these freedoms, including contributing to their communities, families and congregations.

Participating IDAC members will share their unique perspectives about why Medicaid must be preserved for people with disabilities.

Panelists:

Meg Cooch, Director of Policy and Advocacy, Lutheran Services in America Disability Network, “When thinking about deficit reduction and balancing the budget, we must apply our faith values to possible proposals. Medicaid allows people with disabilities the opportunity to be full participants in our society by providing critical services and job supports.”

David Feinman, Senior Legislative Associate, the Jewish Federations of North America, “Considering the challenges the ‘Supercommittee’ and the rest of the Congress face coming to a consensus on most issues, it is critical that they hear from people who want to have a constructive conversation.”

Maggie Mitchell Siddiqi, Islamic Society of North America, "In Islam, we are instructed to protect the dignity of every human being and provide help for those in need. As a Muslim, I believe in the importance of preserving safety net programs like Medicaid, which help people maintain their dignity and self-sufficiency.”

Khizer Husain, Member, Task Force on Health Affordability, American Muslim Health Professionals, "My faith compels me to advocate for the neediest, particularly if it involves sacrifice."