The role of rehabilitation in achieving social justice for minorities with disabilities

The concept of social justice appears to offer a new and appropriate context for examining the interplay between race and rehabilitation policy and service provision. The principles of social justice encourage a fairer distribution of power and resources in society through politically conscious advocacy and interventions. The intent of this paper is to explore the assumptions of social justice in relation to the fundamental goals of rehabilitation. In particular, the exploration will focus on the common principles (e.g., protection of human rights, promotion of equity) inherent to both philosophies. Special attention is given to the interaction between social justice and the rehabilitation experience for minorities with disabilities.