Lee: "I, too, acquired a disability due to an industrial accident... The state's role must be clearer."

Newsis [Financial News] On the occasion of the 46th National Day of Persons with Disabilities on the 20th, President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the state's responsibility to guarantee the rights and interests of persons with disabilities, stating, "As I myself acquired a disability due to an industrial accident, I feel this reality all the more acutely. " In a message posted on Facebook that day, President Lee stated, "On the occasion of the 46th National Day of Persons with Disabilities, I send my deepest support to all persons with disabilities who are silently continuing their lives in every corner of society," adding, "I also bow my head in gratitude to everyone who is striving for the rights and interests of persons with disabilities.
" President Lee said, "What is natural movement and ordinary choice for some is a series of grave decisions and earnest challenges for others," adding, "Because a single small threshold placed before one's eyes can become a forbidden line that is difficult to cross, the role of the state must be all the more clear. " He continued, "As someone who also acquired a disability due to an industrial accident, I feel this reality all the more acutely.
" He added, "Thanks to the collective dedication of many people, there have been significant policy changes and progress," and stated, "We are continuing our efforts to create a 'country where differences do not lead to discrimination,' such as establishing the 'Comprehensive Plan for Health Management of Persons with Disabilities' for the first time under our administration and pursuing the enactment of the Disability Rights Guarantee Act as a national agenda. " However, he pointed out that "various inconveniences, restrictions, and invisible barriers still exist in daily life.
" President Lee stated, "Tearing down these barriers and enhancing the rights and interests of people with disabilities goes beyond merely increasing welfare; it is about expanding the freedom of life for all citizens. " He added, "I believe that people with and without disabilities can coexist in a society where anyone can change their living conditions through their own efforts and become independent as a member of society.
" He continued, "People with disabilities can never be an exception in a 'country where the people are the masters' and a 'country where the people are happy. '" He pledged, "I will look after your lives more carefully so that your present can be a little more comfortable and your tomorrow can be freer.
" He further added, "I will fulfill my responsibilities to ensure that disability does not become a criterion that determines the possibilities of life in all areas, including care, education, culture, and employment.
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west@fnnews.com Seong Seok-woo Reporter