Human Rights Program & Women's Program

A voice of our own

December 3, 2003: International Day of Disabled Persons

The International Day for Disabled Persons, adopted by the United Nations in 1982, aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.

The theme for this year’s United Nations International Day for Disabilities is “A Voice of Our Own”. The objectives of this theme are to promote the full participation and equality of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life and to increase awareness that integrating persons with disabilities enriches and strengthens every aspect of our political, social, economic and cultural lives.

This theme is similar to the 2002 PSAC Access Conference which was “Not For Us Without Us” where the objective was to promote the full participation of members with disabilities at levels – within the union, workplaces and communities.

The Public Service Alliance of Canada encourages all members, particularly members with disabilities, to get involved in raising awareness of disability issues. Members should support and promote the integration of persons with disabilities in all aspects of political, social and economic and cultural life. Members can organize activities by holding public discussions focusing on disability issues and how persons with disabilities and their families can pursue independent living, employment and financial security.

It is also important to celebrate and profile the many invaluable contributions of persons with disabilities in the labour movement, workplaces and communities and around the world.

As trade unionists, we must continue to push for true equality, justice, and peace for all.