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International Day of Disabled Persons
3 December 2003

The International Day of Disabled Persons at the UNCC, Bangkok

The International Day of Disabled Persons (IDD) aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the integration of PWD in every aspect of political, social, economic, and cultural life. The observance of the Day in 2003 focused on giving a voice to the human experiences of PWD, whom are seldom covered in mainstream media, and when portrayed, they are either stereotyped or presented as an inspiration for "overcoming" a disability.

This year's theme was based on the goal of full participation and equality of PWDs in social life and development, established by the UN General Assembly in 1982. The Secretary-General of the United Nations stated in his message on the International Day of Disabled Persons 2003 that "This awareness is vital if we are to achieve the goal established by the World Programme of Action concerning Persons with Disabilities-namely, the full participation and equality of PWDs in social life and development."

At the Headquarters in New York, the United Nations hosted an event titled, "A Voice of Our Own," the motto of Disabled Peoples' International, a worldwide network of organizations that promotes initiatives to protect the rights and improve the quality of life for PWD. ILO stated that "The voice of women and men with disabilities is being heard more clearly than ever before, at the national and international level, as laws and policies are being adjusted to reflect the new understanding of disability as a human rights issue. It is increasingly accepted that nothing should be done on behalf of PWD without their active participation, as encapsulated in the slogan 'Nothing About Us, Without Us'. When their voice is recognized as legitimate in social dialogue, disabled women and men will be empowered to become partners in the process of economic, social and political development needed to bring about growth with equity in every country, and a globalized world that leaves no one behind. The ILO is committed to making their voice heard."

Activities on the IDD, in other countries of the Asia-Pacific region were also celebrated.

Pacific Islands and Oceania
1. Solomon Islands: Organized a march to the Government Headquarters where members were interviewed by the media with TV coverage.
2. Fiji: Fiji Disabled Peoples' Association (FDPA) organized a parade, led by the Fiji National Youth Band. Representatives in the parade met with Mr. Danienl Fatiaki, Chief Justice of Fiji; music entertainment was provided by the United Blind Persons Vision Band. There was a "Speakers Bureau", where PWD representing interesting groups and affiliates gave a 10 minute presentation. Affiliate groups were comprised of speakers from the Mental Health Hospital, Fiji Spinal Cord Injury Association, United Blind Persons of Fiji Association, Fiji Association of Disabled, Fiji Women's Crisis Center, and the Fiji Forum of Non State Actors. In addition, the Fiji Human Rights Commission, Fiji National Council for Disabled Persons, and FDPA also made presentations at the event. Special Children's Schools were also part of the event.
India

The International Day of Disabled Persons or the World Disability Day was, as it called in India, a major day to celebrate for millions of disabled Indians. The theme for this year was to celebrate the spirit of "Inclusion" as in integration of disabled people into mainstream society. It is often said that PWDs are an invisible minority in India, mostly staying indoors due to the complete lack of facilities and accessible infrastructure that could enable them to lead a life well-integrated with civil society. World Disability Day is intended to break this barrier and celebrate the rights of PWDs. As a disability activist once commented: "It is our Diwali, Christmas, Id & Holi-all combined into one!" This is one day of the year when disabled people come out of their homes with families and friends to rejoice! This year a mega event was organized by NCPEDP at India Gate in collaboration with core group members NGOs, namely AADI, Deaf Way, Deepalaya, Council of Architecture, Hemophilia Federation, Leprosy Mission, Voluntary Services Overseas India, Pravah and Swavalamban. Thousands of people turned up at India Gate to support 'Inclusion' of PWD in mainstream society. People showed solidarity at a nationwide campaign. Mrs. Shiela Dikshit, Chief Minister of Dehli, guest of honour, said, "From next year, we must have 'Walk to Freedom and Equality' if we want to sensitize people on inclusion of disabled people in mainstream society. The government is looking forward to creating Delhi as a barrier-free city." The event was filled with various cultural extravaganzas. Other attractions of the day included a talk show. Children jived and danced with popular numbers. Some intellectually disabled went on the stage, dancing in tune with the rhythm. Their sense of music and rhythm left everybody spellbound.
Thailand

The International Day of Disabled Persons in India

Thailand observed the International Day of Disabled Persons, with the theme, "Thai disabled persons can do beyond ones' imagination." The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security organized 24 activities between 5 November to 3 December 2003 throughout the nation to observe this day. The aim was to publicize progress of measures and operational plans concerning PWD and promote public awareness and recognition of the abilities of PWD. All these activities were the result of the cooperation and collaboration of various agencies and organizations in both the public and private sectors.

On 3 December 2003, the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security presented plaques of honor to selected organizations which have played outstanding roles in supporting PWD by employing PWD. In addition, approximately 200 people from public and private agencies, DPO, the media, and the general public attended a workshop entitled, "The Voice of Our Own Toward Rights and Dignity", aimed at publicizing knowledge and promoting public understanding of the BMF; public awareness of PWD, recognizing their rights and dignity, opening the floor for PWD and other participants to share their views, and discussing problems and issues concerning PWD.

One can see that each country recognized the importance of this special day by giving PWD and related organizations an opportunity to voice their concerns. APCD will continue to support this special event for PWD in the Asia-Pacific Region.

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International Day of Disabled Persons 3 December 2003

International Day of Disabled Persons
3 December 2003