News

Volume 1 Issue 7 - December 01, 2003

A day to celebrate

For disabled persons, it is a day to celebrate, to rejoice and to ask for basic rights of inclusion into the mainstream society as any other respectable citizen of the country. And therefore, on World Disability Day (December 3) this year, the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for the Disabled Persons (NCPEDP) along with its partner organisations, will be organising a 'Walk to Freedom' at India Gate in New Delhi.

This year's celebrations are centred around inclusion as the theme. "Inclusion of disabled people into mainstream life will give wings to dreams of millions of disabled people," says the NCPEDP Executive Director, laved Abidi.

Last year, 7,000 people including disability rights activists from far-flung regions of the country turned up for the event and this year, the organisers are expecting 10,000 people to participate. A fun-filled event with cultural shows, there will be a performance by the popular music band Indian Ocean on the occasion. Eminent theatre personality Barry John will present an integrated play with disabled and regular children to celebrate disability.

"Disabled people seek our support --our support in providing them an accessible and healthy environment without prejudice, which is their right, as it is ours too," says Mr Abidi. "They do not need our sympathy though."

On the occasion, a special awareness campaign about disability related issues will be undertaken to sensitise the masses. The campaign will motivate people to come forward and express their solidarity Disabled people at various 'solidarity booths' on December 2.