|
STATEWIDE
CANDIDATES:
QUESTIONNAIRE RESPONSES/DISABILITY POSITION
STATEMENTS
In late August 2002, NYSILC sent a
non-partisan questionnaire to statewide candidates for the offices of Governor,
Attorney General, and Comptroller. Its is designed to provide voter education
on issues significant to people with disabilities. The questionnaires were sent
out U.S. Mail "return receipt requested." A postcard was returned to
acknowledge receipt from every major candidate. As of October 20, 2002, only
two Gubernatorial candidates responded - Thomas Golisano and H. Carl McCall.
Mr. Golisano responded to the questionnaire, while Comptroller McCall submitted
a detailed position statement on disability issues. They are presented below
unedited. We thank them for their interest and response. All other candidates
chose not to respond.
Golisano Response to NYSILC Questionnaire
Answers by: Thomas Golisano,
Independent Party Candidate for Governor of New York
- What is your philosophic belief about people
with disabilities?
My own son, Steven, is developmentally
disabled. His struggles have shown me just how important it is for everyone to
have an equal opportunity to succeed.
- What issues do you think are a priority for
people with disabilities?
The Americans with Disabilities Act
has made great strides in helping those who become disabled retain their jobs,
but has done very little in knocking down the social barriers that prevent
qualified disabled persons from being hired in the first place. I work very
hard everyday with organizations such as Al Sigl Center's Gathering of Hearts
Partnership Campaign and BOCES to change these views.
- What have you accomplished for people with
disabilities?
I have a long history of supporting organizations
that work to help those with disabilities of all kinds. I have contributed to
causes ranging from the Upstate Guide Dog Association to the National Multiple
Sclerosis Society of Upstate NY. In addition, I created the B. Thomas Golisano
Foundation in the mid-1980's, which has given more than $5 million to
organizations and individuals with disabilities.
- What do you plan to accomplish for people with
disabilities if elected?
A common theme in my campaign has been
that all New Yorkers should be treated equally. I do not believe in
discrimination against any class of people. Equality cannot happen if some New
Yorkers are denied access to public services and programs. I will continue to
work to change the attitudes and policies that bar those with disabilities from
being as active and involved as they desire to be.
- What forums, events, and/or activities has
the candidate personally attended to outreach to the disabled
community?
While I am always eager to contribute to a worthy
cause, I try not to do so with the publicity my appearance would create. The
organizations that I support are causes that I believe in and that deserve
these funds. They are not stepping stones for political advantage.
|
