Tressa Burke Declines MBE Over Disability Rights Concerns

Tressa Burke, the chief executive officer of the Glasgow Disability Alliance (GDA), recently declined an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) awarded for her contributions to disability rights. Burke's decision stems from her belief that the UK government is perpetuating a narrative of "hatred, blame, and scapegoating" towards individuals with disabilities. In her letter to the Cabinet Office, Burke expressed that she could not accept a personal honor while disabled people are being "demonised, dehumanised, and scapegoated" due to political choices and policy failures.

The Guardian

Burke's organization, GDA, has been instrumental in supporting over 5,000 members, particularly during the pandemic. She highlighted that the timing of her MBE recommendation coincided with the UK budget announcement, which included stricter assessments for personal independent payments and cuts to the Motability scheme. Burke criticized the budget for failing to recognize the value of disabled individuals, stating, "It has supercharged the inequalities and unfairness disabled people face."

The Guardian

Founded by Burke, the GDA is dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and fostering a sense of community among its members. The organization focuses on reducing social isolation and empowering disabled people to influence policy and services. Burke emphasized the importance of collective action, stating, "Ultimately I am most proud of the people power of GDA – the board, the staff and the members – all disabled people working together to improve disabled people’s lives."

The Guardian

Burke's commitment to the GDA reflects her belief in the power of community and peer support, which has led to significant personal connections among members, including friendships and marriages. She expressed pride in the sense of belonging that GDA fosters, likening it to being part of a family for thousands of individuals.

The Guardian

Burke's stance also includes a critique of the UK government's framing of disability issues, which she argues contributes to misinformation and societal stigma. She noted that while Scotland is making strides in disability rights, her members will closely monitor the implementation of the Scottish government's new disability equality plan and upcoming manifesto commitments ahead of the May Holyrood elections.

The Guardian

In her letter declining the MBE, Burke articulated her concerns about the government's approach to disability, stating, "When the biggest problem we have is that taxation needs to be addressed... we would be able to offer the provision of a welfare state." This sentiment underscores her call for a more equitable treatment of disabled individuals within the broader context of social welfare.

The Guardian

• “But in her letter declining the proposed award, seen by the Guardian, Burke told the Cabinet Office: “I feel that I cannot accept a personal honour because disabled people are being so dishonoured at this time.” — Tressa Burke, CEO, Glasgow Disability Alliance

The Guardian

• “It is fuelling misinformation. It is fuelling hatred. It is fuelling blame and scapegoating. When the biggest problem we have is that taxation needs to be addressed and if we could all get behind that, including the most wealthy people, we would be able to offer the provision of a welfare state.” — Tressa Burke, CEO, Glasgow Disability Alliance

The Guardian

• “The peer support that members give each other, the friendships that have sprung up, people have even got married … that’s just something to be proud of. The sense of community and belonging that GDA members have. It feels like being part of a family for thousands of people.” — Tressa Burke, CEO, Glasgow Disability Alliance

The Guardian

Burke's decision to decline the MBE highlights ongoing tensions regarding disability rights in the UK and reflects a broader call for recognition and respect for disabled individuals in society.

The Guardian