“Disability equals diversity, not disadvantage.”
That’s currently the headline on the United Nations website which draws attention to The International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Now in its 26th year, this day on December 3rd is designed to both spread awareness of disability issues as well as to promote the benefits of including people with disabilities in business, social and cultural life. In 2018 the Day’s theme is “Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality”.
The day has been marked in a variety of ways across the world. For example, in the UK the Bank of England has released a short film which highlights some of its people’s experiences with disability. It will also be lighting up its offices on the night of 3rd December in purple.
International celebrations such as the Day of Persons with Disabilities serve as a reminder of the important part which every individual has to play in the world. But the day will only be a success if businesses and wider society take its message into the everyday; changing cultures to promote inclusivity and empowering people to develop their individual skills and abilities.
