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Every December 3rd marks a global celebration of resilience, achievement, and advocacy for disability rights. On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, communities worldwide unite to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and recognize the remarkable contributions of disabled people to our society and cultural life.
As New Mexico's top custom upper-limb and lower-limb prosthetics provider, we at PrimeCare witness daily how proper support and assistive technology transform lives in our communities across New Mexico. Inspired by the transformative journeys we witness every day, we'd love to share more about the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and the various ways you can join in celebration of this meaningful holiday both now and in the future.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Why Do We Celebrate It?
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPwD) stands as one of the most significant milestones in the ongoing path toward global disability inclusion and change. December 3rd, also known as Disabilities International Day, brings together governments, organizations, and communities worldwide to address critical disability issues and promote rights, celebrate achievements, and identify areas for continued progress, such as accessibility in education, employment opportunities, healthcare access, and the role of assistive technologies in enhancing independence and well-being.
History and United Nations Initiative
Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1992, this annual observance paved the way for the groundbreaking UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in 2006. The CRPD became the cornerstone of the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy, providing a comprehensive framework for implementing disability rights and inclusion across all sectors of society.
Together, these initiatives transformed global policy approaches from viewing disability as a medical condition to recognizing it as a human rights and development priority, aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals for a more equitable future. The UN Disability Inclusion Strategy continues to guide organizations and governments in creating more inclusive societies.
This year, on December 1st, the United Nations will host a conference gathering global leaders to discuss progress and future initiatives for disability inclusion.
IDPwD 2024 Theme and Significance
The 2024 theme, "Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future," emphasizes the role of disabled persons in shaping policies, programs, and solutions that affect their lives. From Paralympic athletes competing with specialized running prosthetics to inspiring celebrities and public figures with limb differences, people with disabilities continue to reshape societal perceptions and break barriers.
How to Celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Making meaningful contributions to disability inclusion can take many forms. Whether you're a person with a disability or an ally, here are some activities to create a lasting impact in our communities.
1. Learn and Share Knowledge
Educate yourself about disability rights and experiences through various media. Watch TED Talks and films featuring people with disabilities, follow disability advocates on social media, and read about lived experiences. Here are some key ways to expand your knowledge:
- Following disability rights advocates on social media.
- Learning basic American Sign Language (ASL).
- Watching documentaries about successful rehabilitation stories.
- Reading personal accounts of life with prosthetic devices.
- Learning about technological advancements in assistive devices, from innovative above-the-elbow and below-the-elbow prosthetics to advanced mobility solutions.
- Starting conversations with children about disability awareness.
2. Provide Personal Support
Reach out to others who might need encouragement or assistance. Join peer support groups, share experiences with those adapting to life with prosthetic devices, and create safe spaces for emotional support. Some meaningful ways to help include:
- Participating in support groups for those coping with limb loss.
- Mentoring others using similar assistive devices.
- Sharing personal experiences and coping strategies.
- Connecting people with helpful resources.
3. Support Disability-Inclusive Businesses and Arts
Make conscious choices to support disability-owned businesses and artists with disabilities. For example, you can look for musicians, artists, and performers with disabilities to follow and support. When shopping or seeking services, prioritize businesses that demonstrate a genuine commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Consider donating books about disability awareness to your local library. Support adaptive sports programs and inclusive recreation facilities in your area.
4. Take Action in Your Community
Simple yet impactful actions can make a difference in your community. Consider these opportunities:
- Donating unused eyeglasses to local collection programs.
- Volunteering with disability organizations.
- Supporting accessible polling place initiatives.
- Helping train therapy dogs for healthcare facilities.
Consider contacting your representatives about disability-related legislation or advocating for better accessibility in public spaces. Learn about voting accessibility and support initiatives that make polling places more accessible.
5. Foster Inclusive Practices
Commit to using people-first language in your daily communications. Make your home more accessible for visitors of all abilities and advocate for inclusive practices in places you frequently visit. Support workplace initiatives that promote disability inclusion. When organizing events, ensure they're accessible to everyone.
Making a Lasting Impact
The power of human potential knows no bounds. When communities come together to celebrate diversity, share experiences, and support each other's journeys, remarkable transformations happen. This December 3rd marks another milestone in our collective journey toward a more inclusive world, where every person's unique abilities and contributions are recognized and valued.
At PrimeCare, we're committed to being more than just a custom prosthetic and orthotic devices provider – we're your partner in achieving greater independence and quality of life. Our team across New Mexico understands the unique challenges and triumphs that come with using prosthetic and orthotic devices. Contact us today, schedule a free consultation at our Las Cruces clinic, and let's explore how custom prosthetic or orthotic solutions can help you write the next chapter of your story and inspire others in our community!
