Rights groups for disabled join in fight

[rodeodance]

More federal involvement in end of life decisions is what I gather from this article. Not good in my book.


http://www.boston.com/yourlife/health/other/articles/2005/03/23/rights_groups_for_disabled_join_in_fight/

Rights groups for disabled join in fight

By Nina J. Easton, Globe Staff | March 23, 2005

WASHINGTON -- Prayers and references to a ''culture of life" have defined the public face of the emotionally-charged Save-Terri Schiavo movement dominating the airwaves this week. But a critical piece of the coalition is disability rights groups, whose ties to Democrats could produce bipartisan legislation creating a more extensive federal role in cases involving the removal of life support.

Disability rights groups have struck an uneasy alliance with Christian conservatives and are prepared to use the partnership to press for broad legislation restricting the ability of families to remove life-sustaining treatments from patients unable to communicate their wishes.

''Both sides of the culture war want to make this about their issues," said Diane Coleman, whose group, Not Dead Yet, was named for the same refrain in the movie ''Monty Python and the Holy Grail."

......Conservative Christian leaders say that when Congress returns to session, they will work closely with disability activists to press legislation providing for federal court reviews of cases where a state judge has authorized the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment. ......

[loyalsister]

1. I'm glad they're involved

They need to be. This is a slippery slope when it comes to disability rights. AND it gives Democrats an opportunity to call attention to the fact that Republicans need to give a damn about keeping people alive while they are able to treat their illnesses.
Democrats BETTER use it!

[cornermouse]

2. The end result will be a sharp increase in suicide.

At which time, the fundies will try to put those who unsuccessfully attempt suicide in prison.

Looks like their next goal is to do away with the advance directives and living wills.