Go global for disabled people

Hosting art shows, spearheading accessibility campaigns and sharing stories are just some of the ways to mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3 December 2024.

The day highlights the importance of equality, including accessibility, for people with disabilities – and celebrates the achievements of people who live with physical or mental challenges. The aim is to promote their rights and wellbeing.

Share stories and experiences of persons with disabilities

International Day of Persons with Disabilities was set up by the United Nations to raise awareness about the barriers disabled people face in society – and to promote their full and equal participation in all aspects of life.

It serves as a platform to make a stand for the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities. It’s also an opportunity for governments, organisations and communities to come together to improve the lives of disabled people.

According to the UN, this year’s official theme for the day is ‘Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future’. There’s a wide range of resources to help:

– website Awareness Days offer a subscription service to help promote awareness events. Among the schemes they encourage are – campaigning for accessible transport, celebrating achievements and sharing stories and experiences of persons with disabilities;

– Days Of The Year website recommend such activities as an inclusive art exhibition featuring artists with disabilities, a fun run where everyone – regardless of ability – can participate, screening inspiring films, hosting a community picnic and launching a social media campaign to promote inclusivity;

– teaching agency Twinkl offer downloadable resources including activity packs, display posters, discussion ideas and Powerpoints to help explore the subject of disability with children and teenagers.

Disability is part of being human, say the World Health Organisation

When taking part in activities related to International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the UN encourage people to consider using these hashtags:

• #IDPD;

• #DisabilityDay;

• #EveryoneIncluded;

• #GlobalGoals;

• #CRPD.

Using the hashtags helps people connect with others who are also dedicated to promoting the rights and wellbeing of disabled people and raising awareness about the day.

Disability is part of being human, say the World Health Organisation. An estimated 1.3 billion people – about 16 per cent of the global population – currently experience significant disability.