Abstract ＆ Presentation :

The right to read can be realized for people with intellectual disabilities when we achieve the technical ability to transform texts into plain language formats and when we can agree on intellectual property rights for texts that are so transformed. We need to agree on plain language standards. Many of the out-of-school children and non-reading persons in the world have intellectual or learning disabilities. They need access to humane letters as well as important documents in order to participate fully in their personal and political lives. Plain language can benefit everyone.

Bio :

Sue Swenson is president of Inclusion International. She was appointed by the Obama administration in 2010 to serve as deputy assistant secretary for special education and rehabilitative services in the US Department of Education. Swenson has held various leadership positions in the Clinton administration and the non-profit sector. While in OSERS, she directed NIDRR for a year and chaired the US Access Board. Her middle son, Charlie, had lifelong profound disabilities. A native of Red Wing, Minnesota, she was educated at the University of Chicago (AB, AM) and holds an MBA from the University of Minnesota.

Manel Mhiri serves as Human Rights Officer for Inclusion International.

Ailis Hardy serves as Self-advocacy Coordinator for Inclusion International.

* Following the conventions of the IFLA WLIC Program, all honorifics are omitted in the Program.