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>>> SENATOR ROCKEFELLER:
I hope you know that I very much wished that I could have joined
you for this very important conference, but, the world being what it is, my work in the
Senate has kept me here in Washington, and I can’t be with you. So I apologize. West
Virginia Advocates is doing a great thing here today. This conference is a wonderful
event helping people with disabilities learn about the array of employment opportunities
available to them. I firmly believe that every single American who wants to work should have
that opportunity, and I am fighting every day in Congress to create policies that help
us achieve greater employment opportunities for our state. Dating back, to be honest,
to my years as a Vista volunteer in WV, I have seen so many times first hand the power
that a good job, and the benefits that go along with that, and the experience that goes
along with that, can have on an individual and his community. And under the same statement,
I’ve seen it when it doesn’t work. The sadness, the tragedy, and the “I’m alone
in the world” factor that can happen when this is not the case. Nothing is to be underestimated
when it comes to employment. The fact is, everyone deserves a chance to take their future
into their own hands, to pursue education and training, prepare for their futures and
their careers, and make a difference for themselves. That’s called self-esteem, in part. A good
job is everything. It gives everyone the sense of security, makes community stronger, keeps
families healthier, and gives hard-working West Virginians a chance to earn a piece of
the American dream. I hope this conference will encourage and inspire you to become active,
even more so, and engaged in your work communities. I know that will be the case. Every person
here has so much to offer to WV and our entire nation. No one can be left behind. No one.
Thank you again for this invitation, for allowing me to join with you. I wish you all the very
best for a successful conference and a very bright future. Thank you.