International Day of Persons with Disabilities – Celebrating the Contributions of People with Disabilities
December 3 is recognized as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, which is an important observance that highlights the rights and contributions of people with disabilities around the world. This day is significant as it raises awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities and promotes the need for an inclusive society that values diversity and provides equal opportunities for all. The theme for 2021 is “Building Back Better: Toward a Disability-inclusive, Accessible and Sustainable Post-COVID-19 World”, emphasizing the importance of inclusion and accessibility in the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was first observed in 1992, following a resolution by the United Nations General Assembly to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 15% of the global population, or 1 billion people, live with some form of disability, making it the largest minority group in the world.
People with disabilities face numerous barriers in accessing education, employment, healthcare, and public services, hindering their full and equal participation in society.
This day aims to break stereotypes and promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of life, including education, employment, and recreation.
Various events and activities are organized on this day to celebrate the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities, as well as to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of people with disabilities.
In many countries, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is also a national holiday, with celebrations and activities held in schools, government agencies, and community organizations.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, adopted in 2006, is an international human rights treaty that aims to protect the rights and dignity of people with disabilities.
This convention recognizes the right of people with disabilities to equal and full participation in all aspects of society, and emphasizes the importance of accessibility, equality, and non-discrimination.
On this day, we reflect on the progress made in promoting the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities, while also recognizing the challenges that still remain and the need for continuous action to achieve a more inclusive and accessible world.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the inequalities faced by people with disabilities, as they are more vulnerable to the health risks of the virus, and have also faced greater challenges in accessing essential services and support.
The theme for this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities focuses on the importance of building back better and ensuring that people with disabilities are included in the post-pandemic recovery.
Policies and programs that promote disability-inclusivity and accessibility must be prioritized in the recovery efforts to create a more resilient and sustainable world for all.
This day also serves as a reminder for governments, organizations, and individuals to take action towards breaking down the barriers that prevent people with disabilities from fully participating in society.
We can all contribute to promoting the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities by challenging ableism and promoting accessibility in our communities, workplaces, and institutions.
Let us celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities by recognizing the valuable contributions and potential of people with disabilities, and committing to creating a more inclusive and accessible world for all.
#IDPD #disabilityrights #inclusionforall
