A Day for the Hidden

Roman Davis
Staff Writer
   A day for the disabled, to show support and awareness for those suffering with physical and mental setbacks. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was celebrated once more on December 3rd; "Not All Disabilities are Visible'' was the theme for 2022. This theme was designed to include disabilities that are invisible to the common eye such as mental health disorders, chronic pain, fatigue, and much more. The other part of this year's theme was “Transformative Solutions for Inclusive Development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world.” This 28-year-old holiday has had many themes in the past such as "Leadership and Participation of Persons with Disabilities" (2021), "Empowering Persons with Disabilities and Ensuring Inclusiveness and Equality" (2018), and "Removing Barriers to Create an Inclusive and Accessible Society for All" (2012).
   One of the most common invisible disabilities is neurodiversity; according to the Diversity & Inclusion Speakers Agency, people with neurodiversity “uniquely view the world, as their brains are wired differently from their able-bodied counterparts." As these impairments are not seen as a more known disability such as paralysis, loss of limbs, and more, it is often mistaken for mental health issues instead. Examples of neurodiversity include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, dyslexia, Tourette syndrome, and multiple others.
​  Disability inclusion is an essential law to upholding human rights. On the United Nations (UN) website, the Department of Economic and Social Affairs wrote, "The commitment to realizing the rights of persons with disabilities is not only a matter of justice; it is an investment in a common future." Along with this statement, the Secretary-General for the UN created The United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy in June of 2019, providing the foundation for sustainable and transformative progress on disability inclusion. The Secretary-General also released a report last year in October 2021 on the steps taken by the UN system to implement the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy in 2020 and the coming years.
   The observance of the International Day of Disabilities aims to promote an understanding and awareness of disability issues as well as to mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities, hidden or not. Here are some ways to help support others even after the holiday has passed:

• Always ask before giving assistance. Just because a person has a disability does not mean they necessarily need or want assistance as it could seem patronizing.
• Help out in the community by helping provide transport and access to those who are disabled and are needing the help.
• Donate to other charities dedicated to supporting individuals who deal with these issues daily.
• Try to improve accessibility for people with disabilities as well as provide areas to cater to individuals of all abilities.

   Celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities by honoring those with disabilities and supporting the community. Stay tuned for the next theme announcement in 2023!