Since 1992, countries from around the world have come together to celebrate International Day of People with Disability. Each year on December 3rd, we promote inclusion and celebrate the fantastic contributions made by people with disability across the globe. By coming together every year, we hope to collectively advance the rights and well-being of people with disabilities, building on many decades of work in the field of disability.
Given the tumultuous year we’ve all experienced, this year’s theme for International Day of People with disability is “Building Back Better: toward a disability-inclusive, accessible and sustainable post COVID-19 World”.
In line with the “Building Back Better” theme, we have launched an online art gallery showcasing the strength, creativity and resilience of people with disability during what has been an extremely troubling and uncertain time. The exhibition features a collective range of art from photography, paintings, music and more which can be viewed here.
I wish for a world that views disability, mental or physical, not as a hindrance but as unique attributes that can be seen as powerful assets if given the right opportunities
For close to 25 years, Breakthru has proudly participated in IDPWD events across Australia. These events have continued to show support, raise awareness and most importantly bring people with disability together.
While many of us are unable to meet and celebrate face to face this year, there are still many ways to get involved and share the fun. Here are our top 3 ways to enjoy the celebrations this year from the comfort of your own home, or within your local community.
# 1 Join an event near you or start a conversation
To find an event near you, simply visit the International Day of People with Disability Website and browse the range of events that are being hosted near you. There are many free community events occurring in cities across Australia, such as a boardgame night in Port Macquarie to a film screening in Rockhampton.
If you’re looking for something a little more COVID-safe there are also a wide range of webinars and virtual events hosted across Australia that can be viewed, such as our very own online art exhibition!
#2 Post on social media
To encourage support and promote awareness you can share frames for Instagram, tiles for Facebook and other digital products for social media. Don’t forget to use #IDPWD when showing your support as well.
If you’re feeling creative there are style guides and logos available so you can create your own products as well.
#3 Share resources with loved ones, colleagues, or people around you.
To support any activities you may be considering, we have created a small list of free resources that you can. Here are some great resources that take little time to prepare:
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Colour-in posters, print out chatter box and more for children to get involved.
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Stories of people with disability from award-winning writers and inspirational people alike.
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This year’s IDPWD Poster that can be advertised in your event, school, community group or workplace.
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An informational video of the social model of disability, encouraging ways of removing barriers of people with disability.
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Thank you Certificates to show your gratitude and give a token of appreciation.
How we’re celebrating International Day of People with Disability
Last year Breakthru celebrated International Day of People with Disability by launching FOCUS 2019, a photo exhibition dedicated to telling the incredible stories of Breakthru customers through creative photography.
The event was a great success with our talented photographers sharing their fantastic contributions with hundreds of community members gathering with enthusiasm. A special thanks to the volunteers that day and for our customers whom have been an inspiration to us all.
This year, COVID has kept us all apart, but we’re not going to let that stop the celebrations! To ensure we can create a safe and accessible event, we’ve launched an online art exhibition for FOCUS 2020 featuring talented artists with disability from across Australia.
Celebrations will continue over the week, so be sure to explore the exhibition and stay tuned for the co-hosted live stream event on the 5th December.
