Statement by Mr. Robert Gray

Commemorative event: Entry into Force of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Optional Protocol, New York, 12 May 2008

It is a pleasure to be here for this first day of issue ceremony commemorating the landmark treaty on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

             To commemorate this very special event, UNPA is issuing six stamps today in the denominations of New York 42 cents, 94 cents, Geneva F.s. 1,00, F.s. 1,80, and Vienna € 0,55 and € 1,40. The stamps were designed by Rorie Katz of UNPA’s Graphic Design Unit in New York.

There are eight guiding principles that underlie the Convention and each one of its specific articles:

1. Respect for inherent dignity, individual autonomy including the freedom to make one’s own choices, and independence of persons

    

2. Non-discrimination

    

3. Full and effective participation and inclusion in society

    

4. Respect for difference and acceptance of persons with disabilities as part of human diversity and humanity

    

5. Equality of opportunity

    

6. Accessibility

    

7. Equality between men and women

    

8. Respect for the evolving capacities of children with disabilities and respect for the right of children with disabilities to preserve their identities

    

(UNVEIL STAMP DESIGNS)

42 cents - Accessibility

This stamp image features the international symbol of access – a representation of a person in a wheelchair.

94 cents - Braille

This stamp design spells the word “UN” in Braille script using embossed raised Braille characters to allow the stamp to be touched and read.

F.s. 1,00 -  Nothing about us without us

This stamp image features an abstract drawing of two hands shaking each other and forming a heart shape.

F.s. 1,80 -  Sign language

This graphic image represents a silhouette of the word “Love.  The word “Love” is also written to clarify the meaning of the signing. The image is an international symbol of Love.

€ 0,55 -  Education

This stamp image features a scholar with the traditional hat and clothing attire worn on the day of graduation.

€ 1,40 - Integrity

This stamp design represents the idea of body mind and spirit with open hands to embrace the rights of persons with disabilities.

Thank you all for attending today’s ceremony.
Statement by Mr. Robert Gray [WORD]