An estimated one billion people around the world are living with a disability of some kind. In many cases, these individuals are not afforded equal rights, respect, or opportunities.
In 1992, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed December 3 as the annual observance of the International Day of Disabled Persons and set out its goal: “…to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development, and to increase awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.” (https://www.un.org/en/observances/day-of-persons-with-disabilities)
As part of increasing our awareness, it’s important to note that not all disabilities are “visible.” A person living with a disability may have a “mental illness, chronic pain or fatigue, sight or hearing impairments, diabetes, brain injuries, neurological disorders, learning differences and cognitive dysfunctions, among others.”* According to the World Health Organization’s World Report on Disability, of the estimated 450 million individuals who live with a mental or neurological condition, almost two-thirds will not seek professional medical help, largely due to stigma, discrimination, and neglect. *(Source: https://idpwd.org/event/idpwd2020/)
By focussing on the importance of respect and inclusion, we have the opportunity to help our students recognise and appreciate persons who live with a disability, and take action to change the way we perceive and treat them.