Video: Day Of Persons With Disabilities
Bermuda marked the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities at City Hall today [Dec 3].
A Government spokesperson said, “Today, Bermuda joined the global community commemorating the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities [IDPD] at City Hall. This year’s theme, “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” focused on promoting inclusion, representation, and the active participation of persons with disabilities in all areas of life.
“The Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP, MP, Minister of Youth, Social Development, and Seniors, delivered remarks highlighting the importance of inclusive leadership and Bermuda’s commitment to creating a more equitable society.”
Minister Tinee Furbert said, “Good Day, Bermuda,
“It is an honour to address our community in recognition of the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities, recognized universally on December 3rd.
“The theme for 2024 is: “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.” This includes:
- “Promoting the leadership of persons with disabilities in all areas of life.
- “Ensuring the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society.
- “Increasing the participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.
- “Raising awareness of the rights of persons with disabilities.
- “Celebrating the achievements of persons with disabilities.
“We know representation matters. Having people with disabilities in leadership positions indicates more inclusive spaces and communities. It also helps to bring forward different perspectives and solutions that can account for a wider set of needs.
“Furthermore, when identifying needs and solutions for challenges facing persons with disabilities, the international rallying cry of disability activists globally must come to mind and be respected, that is: “Nothing about us without us”. This means that persons with disabilities must be included in decisions that impact their lives.
“The government is committed to ensuring consultation and inclusion of diverse voices and experiences within our work. This is a key reason for creating a Disability Advisory Council and was embodied in creating the National Plan for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities.
“Our recent ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities not only demonstrates our commitment to ensuring rights are upheld but is a calling to commit to further action for a more inclusive island.
“And, it takes all of us to ensure that persons with Disabilities have their voices heard.
“I want to acknowledge the Disability Advisory Council for all the work that they do, and for organizing today’s proclamation and working to promote other disability-related organizations in our community.
“It would be remiss of me not to mention that the International Day of Persons with Disabilities falls within the 16 days of activism to address gender-based violence. This overlap is intentional, as persons with disabilities, and in particular women with disabilities, are more at risk of abuse or violence.
“As a community, we all need to take leadership to call out and report violence. This includes calling out negative stereotypes, language, and attitudes toward disabilities that can result in discrimination, exclusion, and violence.
“Finally, I am thankful to see the collaboration of disability-related organizations here today, promoting their work and the rights and well-being of their clients. I encourage our community to support disability-related organizations and show your commitment to creating a more inclusive Bermuda.”
