Public Remarks
Opening Remarks at Celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the Russian NGO Perspektiva
William J. Burns, U.S. Ambassador to Russia
Spaso House, Moscow, December 10, 2007
Welcome to Spaso House, and thank you for allowing us to share in your celebration of the 10th anniversary of Perspektiva's activities.
Ten years is a significant period of time in the life of any organization. And during those ten years Perspektiva -- along with its partners -- has earned the reputation of one of the most fervent promoters of the rights of the disabled in the Russian Federation. The last time I saw Secretary of State Rice, she specifically remembered her meeting with some of you in Moscow and mentioned the great work Perspektiva does in Russia.
In this year marking the 200th anniversary of U.S.-Russian diplomatic relations, I'm pleased that Perspektiva is a partner in the efforts of our two countries to ensure that disabled people live in a world where each enjoys equal rights.
Today we also mark Human Rights Day and the 60th anniversary of the U.N. Declaration of Human Rights. And it is because of organizations such as yours fundamental rights and freedoms set forth in the UN Declaration are provided to all citizens without distinction of any kind. Through your work and by your own example, you are changing a mindset to ensure that this country values all people by their abilities, and does not devalue them because of their disabilities. Perspektiva's cooperation with government at all levels, its efforts to increase public awareness and understanding, and its assistance to the disabled and their families to find education, employment, and legal assistance are excellent examples of how an NGO can succeed in Russia. You've already reached tens of thousands of people and I know you will continue to improve the lives of many more.
I am pleased that representatives of "Johnson and Johnson" were able to join us here tonight. The employment program that was established by the company in partnership with Perspectva is an excellent example of cooperation between business and civil society.
Once again I congratulate you with your anniversary and your success. You are a dedicated, committed group of people making a real impact on improving the lives of people with disabilities. I wish you all great success in your further work for many more decades.
It is a great pleasure for me to thank you and present Ms. Denise Rossa, the Director of Perspectiva, on behalf of the organization a Certificate of Recognition In recognition the outstanding work in advancement of the rights of the disabled persons.