International Day of People With Disability

Twenty-three years ago we were blessed with our youngest son. Born early with health problems life has not always been easy for him. He has had many special classes in school and many prayers were said so that his life would be like everyone elses. I never once let him get by with anything because he was a bit slower with everyone else. He did not talk til after he turned 7 but his life was like many others. He played sports and lettered in both football and wrestling, received straight a's and now has a full time job and in a few months will marry the woman of his dreams. But he is not alone and may be luckier than many others who also have disabilities.

Did you know that the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is celebrated on December 3rd every year. It has been commemorated since 1992. The goal is to promote awareness and mobilize support for issues relating to the inclusion of persons with disabilities in society and development. Everyone from governments, UN agencies, civil society organizations, academic institutions and the private sector are encouraged to partner with organizations of persons with disabilities to arrange events and activities to commemorate the day.

There is an estimated one billion people living with disabilities world wide. Each of them face many barriers to inclusion in society. From transportation, employment, education and more are areas where individuals with disabilities are often discriminated in. It is the goal that individuals with disabilities will be able to play their role in society and participate on an equal basis with others. That the focus will be on the ability and not on the disability. The goal to promote empowerment will hopefully lead to real opportunities for people that are created. By enhancing the individuals capacity and offering support when needed empowerment is reached. Individuals with disabilities can fulfill their civic responsibilities when empowered with jobs, health, nutrition, education, and social protection.

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