Did you know that 3rd December is International Day of Disabled People?

The annual observance of the International Day of Disabled People on 3rd December was established by the ‘International Year for Disabled Persons (1981)’. The Day aims to promote a better understanding of disability issues with a focus on the rights of Disabled People, and gains to be derived from the inclusion of Disabled People in every aspect of the political, social, economic and cultural life of our communities. The goal of full and effective participation of Disabled People in society and development was established by the World Programme of Action concerning Disabled Persons, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1982.  This was further strengthened by the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, adopted in 2006.

Include: Observance of the Day provides opportunities for participation by all stakeholders – Governments, UN system organizations, civil society and organizations of Disabled People – to focus on issues related to the inclusion of Disabled People.

Organize: Hold forums, public discussions and information campaigns in support of the Day focusing on disability issues and development, finding innovative ways and means by which Disabled People and our families can be further included into the development agenda.

Celebrate: Plan and organize performances everywhere to showcase – and celebrate – the contributions by Disabled People to the communities in which we live as agents of development and change.

Take Action: A major focus of the Day is practical action to mainstream disability in all aspects of development, as well as to further our participation in social life and development on the basis of equality. Take action to highlight progress and obstacles in implementing disability-sensitive policies, as well as promote public awareness of the contributions by Disabled People to the development of our communities.

The RMS Disability Issues Consultancy would be interested to hear from you, with your stories on how you intend to commemorate the International Day of Disabled People.  Please contact us on –  rms-consultancy@dsl.pipex.com