President of the Dominica Association of Persons with Disabilities (DAPD) Julie Sango believes the association has achieved remarkable milestones, “But the work is far from over. We must continue to push for a more inclusive society and accessibility where persons with disabilities are treated with dignity, respect, and given equal opportunities.”
Miss Sango made this remark at the 40th Annual General Meeting of the Dominica Association of Persons with Disabilities (DAPD) on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at the Nathalie Murphy Auditorium in Goodwill. The meeting was commemorated under the theme, “Empowering Abilities, Breaking Barriers: 40 Years of Inclusion and Advocacy.”
According to Sango, “As we take a moment to reflect on the past 40 years of advocacy and progress, let us look towards the future with hope and optimism. Let us remain committed to our mission of empowering abilities and breaking down barriers ensuring that every individual, regardless of ability, can fully participate in society.”
Meantime, Parliamentary Representative of Roseau North Constituency Hon. Miriam Blanchard said 40 years is a pivotal point for the DAPD to reflect on founding principles, and core values and to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.
Hon. Blanchard emphasized the need to empower persons with disabilities to achieve their full potential.
“Policy barriers…these are facts that instituted barriers can adversely affect persons who are disabled. To address this, the systems of government and institutions must formulate and we have been formulating laws that are considerate of the needs of disabled persons. Such policies must support inclusion, equality, and justice. And we have already seen progress in this regard,” Hon. Blanchard stated.
Disabled persons, individuals, and institutions are called to play a role in assisting efforts towards empowerment. We can all break [the] negative perceptions of persons with disabilities. This leads to advocacy, information, and education.
“Empowering persons who are disabled is not just a moral imperative it is a social and economic necessity as well. By breaking barriers and embracing diversity, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for everyone,” she added.
I am totally supportive even though the few gay men will get their gay-pride parades endorsed before our people who are really really needy get access to sidewalks, let alone any respect.