The disability rights community lost its greatest leader
in Justin Dart Jr. on June 22, 2002. Among his many accomplishments,
contributions, and honors, Dart was also the visionary leader who gave
life to Justice For All and personally funded its development from 1995
to July 2001. AAPD is honored to continue Dart's work.
 |
August 29, 1930 - June 22, 2002 |
Andrew J. Imparato, AAPD President and CEO,
on the completion of Justin Dart, Jr's mission in this world.
"In order to be happy, you should love--love with self-sacrifice,
love all and everything, and spread a network of love everywhere. No
matter who gets into this net, catch them all and fill them with love." (Leo
Tolstoy)
Justin Dart, Jr. understood the power and importance
of love and self-sacrifice more than anyone I have known. Beginning
with his full partnership with Yoshiko Dart and radiating out through
his immediate family, Justin's love was devoted, romantic, and transformative.
For Justin's brothers and sisters in the disability movement, and broader
still through the civil rights movement, and the global human rights
movement, Justin's love was boundless and inspiring. For anyone who
ever met or heard Justin Dart speak, his unending, uncompromising love
made its presence known and felt. From Justin, I have been taught the
importance of leading with love, even when it is difficult, even when
my temper or my ego is telling me otherwise, even when others might
question my loyalties or my judgment, even when it feels much better
to chastise or disdain. Justin is no longer with us, but his example,
especially his unending capacity to love, will guide us for eternity.
Manifesto, Writing by Justin Dart
(MS Word)
(pdf)
Justin
Dart Jr. - I Am With You. I Love You. Lead On!
Justin Dart Jr., An Obituary
Disability Rights Hero, Justin Dart, Jr.
Completes His Mission
Justin Dart, Jr. Legacy - slide presentation