International Day of People with Disability: Celebrating Progress and Advocating for Change

Understanding the Importance of December 3rd

International Day of People with Disability is observed on the 3rd of December each year. This day serves as a moment to celebrate the progress made towards a disability-inclusive society. More importantly, it provides an opportunity for the disability community to reflect on achievements over the past year and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice within the Australian Disability Community.

Board members of Australian Disability Ltd with Nicolette Boele at International Day of People with Disability Event 2024

The Ongoing Struggle for Recognition

Over the past three years, the community has faced challenges in justifying its value. Individuals with disabilities often find themselves needing to prove their worth, both in terms of contributions to society and as human beings. This struggle is particularly evident when confronting adversities that have become a norm. It is devaluing and degrading to have one's existence reduced to the confines of an NDIS plan, which is reviewed only every two or three years.

Politicians often make sweeping statements like, "we’re restoring the NDIS to its original intent," or label legislation as "Getting the NDIS Back on Track." However, such declarations do not reflect the reality faced by many in the disability community.

The Impact of Institutionalization

Many individuals with disabilities have invested significant emotional and financial resources in combating the horrors of institutionalization. Segregation undermines the foundations of an inclusive society. It is essential for people with disabilities and able-bodied individuals to collaborate in forging a truly inclusive community.

The Role of Education in Inclusion

When discussing the advancement of public spaces to promote disability inclusion, it is crucial to consider the role of education. How do we socialize concepts of inclusion or exclusion from childhood? Currently, society is divided. For a child with a disability, enrolling in mainstream schools is not just about receiving an education; it is also about educating able-bodied peers. This interaction challenges the misconceptions perpetuated by parents, teachers, and media.

The effects of inclusion can be powerful and transformative. Often, the younger generation teaches us more about inclusion than we impart to them. Terms like "able-bodied" or "disabled" are social constructs that have historically defined class and power dynamics. As the saying goes, "no one is free until we are all free." This sentiment applies to disability rights, just as it does to gender, race, and creed.

A Call to Action

The time for complacency in the disability rights movement has passed. Individuals with disabilities must not only occupy space in society but also assert their rightful place with pride and courage.

The testimonies of those who bravely spoke at the Disability Royal Commission highlight the urgent need for change. This Royal Commission, which advocates fought hard to establish, produced damning findings that should not be relegated to the archives of a parliamentary library. Recommendations aimed at preventing discrimination must not only be acknowledged but actively implemented.

The Path Forward

As we reflect on the International Day of People with Disability, it is essential to recognize the barriers that still exist. The path to advocating for the needs of individuals with disabilities must be accessible. It should not be obstructed by metaphorical rubbish bins that hinder progress.

In conclusion, the International Day of People with Disability serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward inclusion and equality. It is a day to celebrate achievements while acknowledging the work that remains. Together, as a community, we can continue to innovate and break the mold, challenging stereotypes and attitudes that limit the contributions of individuals with disabilities.

Let us embrace this opportunity to advocate for a future where everyone is empowered, heard, and celebrated for their identity.