19 November 2015

Media Release

Be included and include all on 3 Dec

Today the Human Rights Commission launched a nationwide campaign to celebrate the lives of disabled New Zealanders in preparation for United Nations Day of Persons with Disabilities – 3 December.

The international theme this year is: ‘Inclusion matters: access and empowerment of people of all abilities.’

Thousands of bright orange wristbands with the words ‘Inclusion Matters’ on them have been sent to organisations throughout the country that are part of the campaign.

Disability Rights Commissioner, Paul Gibson says he is thrilled to be working with IHC, CCS Disability Action, People First and CUBE (disabled youth) who are all big supporters of this day of celebration and acknowledgement.

“One in four kiwis live with a disability, and so basically all of us are touched by the diversity and humanity our fellow humans living with disabilities bring to our lives,” Mr Gibson said.

“Disabled people must become more visible particularly in our schools and workplaces. We still have a way to go to bring disabled lives into the mainstream as part of our society completely,” he said.

Disability Issues Minister, Nicky Wagner has two hundred bands for Ministers, MPs and their staff to wear on the day. She is wearing them to the Attitude Awards along with the Commissioner and many others on the day.

“We are part of an orange themed, celebration afternoon tea in Auckland with the Minister and CUBE and encourage workplaces to hold an event with orange food and to talk about why inclusion matters,” he said.

Posters to advertise your event can be downloaded at: www.hrc.co.nz/idpd. Wrist bands can be ordered on line.

Ends.

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