What is International Day of Persons with Disabilities?
The United Nations established the International Day of Persons with Disabilities which is celebrated every year on December 3rd, with the aim of raising awareness about the various challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in political, social, economic, and cultural aspects of life. This day serves as a platform to advocate for change and the rights of people with disabilities, ensuring their successful integration into society.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities emphasizes the significance of inclusivity, accessibility, and equal opportunities, while also celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of these individuals in society.
As someone living with a disability, this day holds significance for me as it shines a light on the barriers that people with disabilities encounter and serves as a starting point for discussing ways to advocate for change. There is a lack of knowledge about disabilities among both disabled and non-disabled individuals, possibly stemming from the absence of disability history education in schools. This lack of education often leads to people falling for the misconceptions and stereotypes about people with disabilities, which perpetuates discrimination. That’s why bringing awareness is crucial, so people unlearn those misconceptions in order to create an inclusive environment in society for those living with a disability. Additionally, it is important for people to be aware of issues that face the disability community to understand that they not only impact this community but also have implications for other communities.