The Center on Disability and Community Inclusion (VT UCEDD) Welcomes Chinese Disability Advocate

November 9, 2012

The Center on Disability and Community Inclusion (Vermont UCEDD) was honored this past month to host visitors Zhao Chunli of China, and Dr. Kathy Johnson of St. Cloud State University. They shared their inspirational story of efforts to build a model school in China for people with disabilities.

Zhao Chunli, a young woman with brittle bone disease and dwarfism was not allowed to attend school, suffered chronic physical pain and was a victim of social discrimination. In 1998, President Clinton visited her town, and the 16 year old girl was forced into hiding because officials in her ancient Chinese fishing village thought she was not fit to be seen by such an important man.

Today, Chunli is employed and is a key figure in an international effort to bring education to people with disabilities in China. She has since met President Clinton, and received his support for her efforts. Chunli recently completed an Educational Leadership Internship at St. Cloud State University. During her visit, Chunli met with CDCI faculty and local self-advocates to learn about Vermont programs for people with disabilities.