Celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Understanding Its Importance and History
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), observed annually on Dec. 3, plays a pivotal role in promoting equality for individuals with disabilities worldwide. The day is dedicated to fostering an inclusive society where disability rights are recognized, and barriers to accessibility are addressed.
What is the purpose of International Day of Persons with Disabilities?
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities, established by the United Nations in 1992, is rooted in the need to raise awareness about disability inclusion and the challenges disabled people face. This day aims to promote an understanding of disabilities and highlight that accessibility is a fundamental human right. It serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility among people with and without disabilities to create an inclusive and accessible future.
Why is awareness of people with disabilities important?
Disability is unique because it is the only minority group that any person can join at any time. Whether through aging, injury, illness or caregiving, nearly everyone will be affected by disability during their lifetime in varying capacities. Despite this, people with disabilities often face disparities in health care, education, employment and economic stability. Building awareness is essential to addressing these inequities and fostering a more inclusive society that supports people with disabilities today and those who may experience disability in the future.
What to do for International Day of Persons with Disabilities
In recognition of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, here are some activities to consider, whether you have a disability, care for someone who does, or want to expand your knowledge about disabilities.
Read Books About Disability
Hundreds of books depict stories about disability, from children’s books to chapter books.
1. Rise Above: How One Man's Search for Mobility Helped the World Get Moving by Ralph Braun
Ralph Braun's autobiography describes his journey from being diagnosed with muscular dystrophy as a child to becoming an entrepreneur in the mobility industry. The book emphasizes themes of self-advocacy and innovation. It details his development of mobility products and the founding of BraunAbility, the largest manufacturer of wheelchair accessible vehicles.
2. My Itty-Bitty Bio Children's Book Series
Developed in collaboration with Easterseals and Cherry Lake Publishing, this series features over 100 books that tell the stories of influential figures, both past and present, who have made significant contributions to the world. Designed for young readers aged 5-7, the series includes profiles of various individuals with disabilities, including Ralph Braun, Helen Keller, Alice Wong, Jason Benetti, and Judy Heumann.
3. Interabled: True Stories about Love and Disability from Squirmy & Grubs and Other Interabled Couples by Shane and Hannah Burcaw
A customer of BraunAbility and an influential figure in the disability community, Shane Burcaw has written multiple books. Burcaw's books primarily focus on his life with spinal muscular atrophy, using humor and candid storytelling to address the misconceptions people have about disability. His works often include anecdotes from throughout his life, aiming to change public perceptions of disability.
Watch a Documentary
The following documentary depicts the Disability Rights Movement:
Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution
The documentary Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution tells the story of Camp Jened, a summer camp for teens with disabilities in the 1970s. Following disability rights activists like Judy Heumann, the film highlights the importance of inclusion and equality, and the ongoing struggle for disability rights, illustrating both the progress made and the challenges that remain. "Crip Camp" is available to stream on Netflix and for free on YouTube.
Donate to a Disability-Focused Organization
There are many organizations to support, whether through donations or volunteering. Some help people with various disabilities, while others focus on specific ones like autism, cerebral palsy, or multiple sclerosis. BraunAbility partners with organizations to offer wheelchair accessible vehicle funding, home ramps, and specialized therapies for people with mobility disabilities. Organizations supported by BraunAbility include Servants at Work (SAWs), Bridge to Mobility, and Conquer Paralysis Now.
Build a Home Ramp for a Person with a Disability
Consider gathering a group of people to build a wheelchair ramp for someone with a mobility disability. If a wooden ramp isn't feasible, try a temporary ramp, a portable ramp, or a pre-built option. Home ramps not only improve accessibility, but allow greater access to local communities for people with disabilities.
Educate Yourself on Disability Rights and Disability Etiquette
Understanding disability etiquette and laws protecting disabled people, like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), empowers all people to advocate for necessary change in their communities.
The Role of the United Nations in Promoting Disability Inclusion
The United Nations plays a critical role in advocating for disability rights and inclusion. Through initiatives like the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), the UN strives to ensure that people with disabilities enjoy the same rights and opportunities as people without disabilities.
The Importance of Continued Advocacy for People with Disabilities
Disability is a part of everyday life, affecting individuals across all demographics. Advocacy and awareness efforts related to disability take place year-round, including Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, and ALS Awareness Month. Read the articles below to learn more about disability rights and advocacy.
