International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Established in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly, IDPWD’s main mission is to ensure that people with disabilities are guaranteed the health and social resources they need to be successful in our society.

December 3rd marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Established in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly, IDPWD’s main mission is to ensure that people with disabilities are guaranteed the health and social resources they need to be successful in our society. According to the CDC, approximately 61 million adults in the US live with a disability. Many times, individuals with disabilities are treated unfairly, resulting in them receiving inadequate care and unsatisfactory experiences. In celebrating IDPWD, the hope is to change that and to do better moving forward for our community members that have disabilities. Here are few ways you can help make a difference today:

1. Become more aware of how your surroundings cater to those with disabilities

If you’re someone that doesn’t have a disability, it can be easy to not notice areas that lack accessibility to those with disabilities. In becoming aware of your surroundings, you may notice that many locations are inaccessible. Some reasons might be specific to mobility, such a place not having wheelchair friendly doors and ramps while others are related to social needs. For example, does a clothing company carry clothing that is inclusive to those with disabilities? Considering all of these points is the first step in helping raise awareness for those with disabilities.

2. Learn more about disabilities

One of the best ways to support any cause is through education. Given the lack of attention received by the disabled community, it can be hard for those not in the community to be knowledgeable on disabilities. Taking time out of your day to learn more about how they impact the lives of many around the world would not only make you a more educated person, but it can help you be a better ally.

3. Support those around you with disabilities

If you know someone in your life that has a disability, the best thing you can do is be for them. While it is important to still respect their autonomy and independence, if they require any additional support, the best thing you can do is be there to provide it. Whether that support be helping them get somewhere they need to be or emotional support, doing what you can to help will make all the difference.

4. Help to advocate for change

Regardless of whether you have a disability or not, it is important to help uplift the voices from the disabled community when they are fighting for change. A lot of injustices they face stem from the fact that they are not treated as equals to abled bodied individuals, but with the right amount of support and awareness, this notion can change. Donating to disability charities, supporting campaigns that fight for disabled rights, and promoting meaningful conversations around disability are some of the many ways you can help advocate for change.

To learn more about International Day of Persons with Disabilities and how you can support its mission, visit https://www.un.org/en/observances/day-of-persons-with-disabilities