Good afternoon,
It was a great pleasure to experience this wonderful program by the Rolling Chairs dance troupe. Many thanks to Ms. Rita Sárai and the entire company for such a beautiful performance! I am so glad that so many honored guests could join us today for this presentation, including Mr. Pál Szekeres, Mayor Ferenc Karsay and Ms. Barbara Varga, our host here tonight at the Cziffra Cultural Center, and of course, our visitors from the United States, Ms. Karin Korb and Mr. Paul Walker.
This year especially, the United States has focused on awareness of the needs of disabled people. This year – 2015 — marks the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a milestone document that prohibits discrimination against disabled people in employment, transportation, public accommodation, communications, and governmental activities. Much has been done in the United States since the Act was signed in 1990 to improve access to public transportation as well as public and private institutions. However, more can always be done in the United States and around the world to ensure that everyone can lead independent lives, despite disabilities.
Karin and Paul, and all of the dancers this evening are certainly excellent examples that physical disabilities can be a source of strength and creativity. Whether as athletes on a court or artists on a stage, they demonstrate resilience, fortitude, and innovation – qualities necessary for success for any person, in any endeavor.
I welcome Karin and Paul and I am grateful that their visit has given me an excellent opportunity to be here with you tonight and learn more about your lives and issues of importance to Hungarians, especially those with disabilities. I’m certain this evening’s performance by Rolling Chairs, like all good works of art, will not only stimulate valuable discussion today, but also continue to inspire us long after tonight.
Thank you and I look forward to hearing what you have to say.
