International Day of Disabled People

Nicky Evans • Dec 3, 2021 • 2 min read

Reflecting on the theme for IDPD 2021 — brings to mind several of the campaigns the Deaf community has focused on over the past 2 years. The question that needs to be asked is “what makes Deaf and Disabled people feel valued, contributing members of society”. At Signalise Co-op we have plans to build on this. We want our Deaf members to be able to feel they can contribute to our Co-op aims and on equal terms as our Communication Professionals. This means we adhere to the ethos of “nothing about us, without us”. But though our ethos is inclusive — we recognise that outside of our Co-op there is still a great deal to do.

Today is International Day of Disabled People — Deaf and Disabled people share many similar barriers; to work/employment, education, leisure, family life etc. In order to continue to be good supporters of each other — we need to recognise that our campaigns can be different as well. For example, the “Where’s the Interpreter” campaign both during Covid-19 and more recently for young Deaf people lack of access to the COP26 climate change campaign. We need to show solidarity and support for each other’s campaigns, and that includes making sure information is accessible to both Deaf and Disabled people so they can decide whether to participate. Leadership and participation is the key to an inclusive accessible society. Anyone can be a leader if they are given the right opportunity, support, training etc — we have to show leadership and tell the world this is how to do it.

Written by Geraldine O’Halloran, Signalise Board Member.