Dear Sibling Leadership Network Members,
As you may already know, today is International Women’s Day, a day that celebrates the achievements and accomplishments of women around the world.
Today means many things. For example, “in different regions [of the world] the focus of the celebrations ranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women’s economic, political and social achievements.*” It also acknowledges the “political and social awareness of the struggles of women worldwide are brought out and examined in a hopeful manner.*”
With that in mind, I wanted to take a moment to recognize the contributions of sisters to the lives of people with disabilities. We know that, when we talk about sibling relationships of people with disabilities, many of the issues and concerns are more common for sisters. For example, we know that sisters are more likely to be involved in the long term support of their brothers and sisters with disabilities **. We also know that support they provide is not “free” and that it deserves to be acknowledged.
Thank you, sisters. You are awesome. You make a difference.
The Sibling Leadership Network endeavors to make a difference for you.
I also wanted to recognize the sisters in our own organization that are making a difference not only to their own families, but to siblings everywhere.
Your efforts are humbling and inspiring.
In solidarity,
-John
*=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Women’s_Day#In_modern_culture
**= Heller, T., & Kramer, J. (2009). Involvement of Adult Siblings of Persons With Developmental Disabilities in Future Planning. Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, 47(3), 208-219.
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John Kramer
Chair
The Sibling Leadership Network
john.kramer@siblingleadership.org
312-436-1839
