International Day of Persons with Disabilities, 3 December 2012

Theme: Removing barriers to create an inclusive and accessible society for all – Theme designated by the UN.

The UN Enable web site states

“The CRPD (Article 9, accessibility) seeks to enable persons with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in all aspects of life and development. It calls upon States Parties to take appropriate measures to ensure that persons with disabilities have access to all aspects of society, on an equal basis with others, as well as to identify and eliminate obstacles and barriers to accessibility…”
“Based on the main theme of IDPD 2012…, sub-themes can be selected to cover all aspects of society and development, including, but not limited to, removing barriers to education, employment, transportation, travel and tourism or sports…”

Actions for the day might include

“Highlight progress and obstacles in creating accessible and inclusive society, including in terms of physical environments, information and communications technology and other areas, as well as promote public awareness of existing barriers to the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in their societies.”

This is a broad theme, providing plenty of scope for action. Start planning now. One thing disability organisations, both “of” and “for” could do to celebrate the day and support the theme might be to make sure their information is accessible.

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Filed under Disability Issues, Information Accessibility

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