In 1992, the United Nation General Assembly proclaimed December the 3rd the International Day of Disabled Persons (IDPD). The day raises awareness of the political, economic, social and cultural aspects disability affects people around the world.
Disability is defined as a condition of being impaired. This can be physical, mental, chronic, sensory, cognitive, etc.
No matter how many or what kind of disabilities, the impact of such condition is very profound on one’s life, and it reflects even on the day-to-day activities. A person with disabilities may attain lower educational achievement and therefore encounter fewer economic opportunities. Disabilities often lead to poorer health as well as higher rates of poverty, and unfortunately in many places, they are shamed and isolated.
The core reason for the discrimination, lack of opportunities and structure, access to services and support is one: ignorance.
In 2006 the UN adopted the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The CRPD is an international treaty that promotes and protects the enjoinments of human rights and freedoms by people with disabilities. In other words, recognizing people with disabilities’ rights just as equal as people without disabilities.
Like most other international awareness days that the UN promotes, the biggest goal is to create conversation and raise inclusivity.
Some ways to participate at the day are:
- Look for opportunities to be more inclusive of persons with disabilities
- Teach your children to treat those who are different with kindness and respect
- Donate to an organization that supports persons with disabilities
- If you’re a business owner, offers discounts to people with disabilities, as well as their families and caregivers
At Clevy, we strive for inclusivity. Having the right communication tool, sometimes is enough to ensure that people with certain impairments can enjoy of the same opportunities as everyone else.
