Thus, equalization of opportunity for persons with disability implies not only drafting new laws and introducing new models of disability policy but also exploring ways to ensure that the social construction of disability leaves room for difference. Such a perspective challenges the notion of hierarchy whereby persons without disabilities are placed above those with disabilities. Advocacy in this regard recognizes that the development of a society for all depends upon the utilization of all human resources, and that persons with disabilities are vital actors in fulfilling the different needs of society. Creating a culture within which the rights of persons with disabilities are respected and where persons with disabilities are not passive recipients but critical participants in the process of building a disability rights culture is a core component of the new advocacy. The Work of Professional Communities in Furthering the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Researchers and experts have played a significant role in identifying and defining human rights policy issues and in formulating proposals to address them.
Research forms an important source of information and creates an impetus for policy development.
Unfortunately, there is a long history of disabled persons being excluded from participation in the decision-making processes that directly affect them. Working to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities through service in international, organizations, national, governments, advocacy groups and non-governmental organizations and academic institutions not only invites but requires the full participation of persons with disabilities at the local, national, regional and international level. The expertise of professional communities can inform the content of a disability rights strategy. Professionals such as lawyers, scholars, aid workers, and others have a reservoir of respect within many communities. The goal for the disability rights agenda is to draw from the expertise of professionals such as lawyers, scholars, government workers, aid workers, activists and others to shape and contribute to its further development.