The world has never been so big… or this small. Billions of people are connected through ever-evolving technologies. We have the potential to make new friends and embark on different experiences using nothing more than our smartphone. One of the groups to benefit from this are people with disabilities. Assistant devices have opened up the world for many, along with buildings taking accessibility more and more into account. Yet through all this, many people still hold onto stereotypes and prejudices towards disabled individuals. Given how far technology has come in all ways of life, there should be far greater inclusivity than what we have. That is why it is so important for you to get involved and help make a difference.

Change is necessary. The 2017 Canadian Survey on Disability concluded that 6.2 million Canadians aged 15 or more have had their day-to-day life hindered by disability. That is one in five of us. Of working-age adults with more severe disabilities, an entire one-third live in poverty. Disability awareness is essential in helping this group rise up and fulfill their potential. There are many ways to go about this, and numerous means to do so in the modern age.

Awareness is critical. One major way that we have always been able to help one another and connect with people is through events. Live events get us away from our screens for in-person experiences that build a greater sense of community. Look for events and activities that occur around awareness days and months. March is Epilepsy Awareness Month. September 7 is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Day. October 10 is World Mental Health Day. These are just a few of the countless examples of days, weeks, and months recognized by Canada and other countries all around the globe. By seeking out events associated with them, you can meet new people and become more aware of what those with disabilities endure. By taking that time to delve into that one particular disability, you will walk away wiser and ready to be an ally for those who live with it on a daily basis.

Education is essential. Events can help you learn things you never knew about a particular condition. By knowing what has to be done for people with disabilities, you can take action to accomplish the changes that will matter most. Music festivals have been able to accommodate deaf and hard-of-hearing attendees through ASL interpreters. Theatre shows with sensory-friendly performances open up the word of the arts to those afflicted with autism. Music, dance, and improve programs have been honed to help people with dementia live more fulfilling lives. By participating in events that concern disabilities, you will learn about the best causes to support, the most progressive politicians to vote for, and even initiatives you can do on your own.

We all have the potential to make a difference for the millions of people living with disabilities. By attending events for different conditions, we gain the awareness to know what needs to be done and the education to know how to go about it. Start by researching the different days, weeks, and months for various disabilities. Then check out their corresponding events in your area. We have the technology. Smart devices can bring us together and start amazing things. When we bolster that technology through events and broadening our knowledge, we equip ourselves with the tools needed to change the world for those who need it most.

Sources:

Disabled World. “Awareness Dates.” https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/awareness/awareness-dates.php

Global Lift Corp. “The Importance of Disability Awareness and Getting Involved.” http://www.globalliftcorp.com/the-importance-of-disability-awareness-and-getting-involved/

Statistics Canada. “Canadian Survey on Disability, 2017.” https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/181128/dq181128a-eng.htm

Vendini. “All Access: Creating Unique Events for People with Disabilities.” https://vendini.com/events-for-people-with-disabilities/