A powerful crowdfunding campaign has been launched to educate Labour MPs on the systemic violence perpetuated by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) against Disabled people. Spearheaded by John McArdle, a dedicated campaigner and co-founder of the Disabled People’s Organisation Black Triangle, this campaign aims to distribute copies of The Department: How a Violent Government Bureaucracy Killed Hundreds and Hid the Evidence to 400 Labour MPs. The book, authored by John Pring – founder and editor of the news agency Disability News Service, provides a meticulous account of the DWP’s policies and their devastating impact on Disabled people.
This campaign represents a critical effort to ensure that lawmakers understand the human cost of austerity and welfare reforms. By providing MPs with this comprehensive resource, it hopes to foster awareness and drive legislative action to address and rectify the injustices faced by the Disabled community.
The campaign is being supported by Ellen Clifford a prominent disability rights activist who spoke at WECIL’s AGM in 2022 about her work which has long highlighted the need for systemic change. Her book, The War on Disabled People, is an essential read that delves into how austerity measures have disproportionately harmed Disabled people. Clifford spoke in support of this crowdfunder saying that “Educating our lawmakers is a crucial step in dismantling the oppressive systems that have long harmed Disabled people. This campaign is about more than just a book; it’s about sparking real change.”
Another prominent campaigner, author and journalist, Frances Ryan, whose book Crippled offers an insightful and poignant examination of the everyday challenges faced by Disabled people in the UK, has described The Department as a “must-read exposé of one of Britain’s biggest hidden scandals” and says that “every politician, civil servant and journalist in the country should have this on their bookshelf”. WECIL think this is also true for Crippled and The War on Disabled People.
The crowdfunding campaign underscores the urgency of educating MPs on these critical issues. By distributing The Department: How a Violent Government Bureaucracy Killed Hundreds and Hid the Evidence, the campaign aims to ensure that Labour MPs are fully aware of the detrimental effects of DWP policies. The book documents harrowing stories of individuals who have suffered due to the department’s actions, providing undeniable evidence of the need for reform.
Get Involved
The success of this campaign depends on the collective efforts of the community. By contributing to the crowdfunding effort, individuals can play a part in ensuring that Labour MPs are informed and equipped to advocate for the rights of Disabled people. For more information and to support the campaign, visit the crowdfunding page.
This initiative is a testament to the power of grassroots activism and the enduring fight for justice within the Disabled community. By raising awareness and educating lawmakers, we can work towards a society where Disabled people are treated with dignity, respect, and equality. Your support can make a difference in this crucial battle for human rights and social justice.
The Department: How a Violent Government Bureaucracy Killed Hundreds and Hid the Evidence by John Pring is available from Pluto Press.
