DILI, 25 july 2024 (TATOLI) – The EU, together with the PLAN, ADTL, the directors of STAE and CNE, the Municipal Police Commander of Manufahi, and Representatives of Municipal Authority and Presidential Office for Inclusion, celebrated the National Day of Persons with Disabilities (EhD). The event included participation from organizations of persons with disabilities (RHTO), Xefe Sukus, and community members.
The celebration with the theme; Together Contribute to Inclusive Society aims to draw public attention and amplify essential messages related to the rights of people with disabilities. The event represented also the occasion to hear the aspirations and challenges faced by PwD in the election process. The relevant parties, especially for more electoral bodies to take action to overcome the challenges of PwD during the electoral process.
The celebration started with the March for Inclusion, followed by interactive discussions between People with Disabilities and STAE, CNE, and Representatives of Manufahi Municipal Authority. In addition, this event marked the collaboration between the Cabinet of the President of the Republic to provide food, including rice, milk, oil, and noodles to 50 people with disabilities in Same.
The celebration was held in the context of the project “Democratic and Inclusive Elections in Timor-Leste”, funded by the European Union and implemented by the Timor-Leste Disability Association, Belun, Justice Peace and Integrity Creation, Fatherland Foundation, Young Women’s Movement, Caucus Foundation and Plan International Timor-Leste.
“Today, we come together to celebrate the National Day of People with Disabilities. This day is more than just a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities; it is a celebration of their resilience, achievements, and the invaluable contributions they make to society. It is also a call to action, urging us to renew our commitment to creating an inclusive world where every person, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and participate fully in all aspects of life” said the Head of Cooperation of the EU Delegation to Timor-Leste, Iotam Lerer.
Plan International Timor-Leste’s Strategy and Influence Manager Sra. Fátima Estrela Soares in this event said: “Plan International will expand the intervention program in Manufahi Municipality. One program is to see the participation of all people including people with disabilities in all sectors. Celebration of National Day of People with Disabilities in Same, to dignify People with Disabilities and value their abilities and potential that they have. Plan International’s presence will work with the municipal authorities to empower the emancipation of people with disabilities and socialize disability terminology to the community to stop eliminating barriers that limit EhD’s self-confidence and participation”.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
