Why We Wear Purple on December 3rd: Supporting Inclusivity and Equality for People Living With Disability

Each year on December 3rd, people across the world wear purple to mark International Day of People with Disability (IDPWD). A United Nations day that is observed globally, IDPWD is an important opportunity to champion initiatives that improve equality and participation for people  living with a disability in our workplaces, schools and communities. 

It’s also a chance to listen to their stories and personal experiences, helping us all to better understand what steps we need to take to improve inclusivity across society. ICMI speakers with lived experience of disability help bridge this gap, inspiring audiences, educating the public and helping to drive change. 

The colour purple symbolises solidarity, signalling that we are committed to creating a world where people of all abilities have equal opportunities to succeed and contribute.

 

Recognising and Supporting People Living With Disability

Disabilities are often invisible, and not every disability is immediately recognisable. This can lead to misunderstandings, discrimination, and the neglect of people who are struggling. Disabilities can be physical, sensory, cognitive, mental, or developmental. They affect people in different ways, and no two experiences are the same.

The theme for 2024, “Transformative Solutions for Inclusive Development: The Role of Innovation in Fuelling an Accessible and Equitable World,” encourages us to reflect on how we can innovate to break down barriers—whether physical, social, or institutional—that individuals face. 

 

Educating the Next Generation

As a society, it’s essential that we instil values of inclusivity and empathy in our children. Schools play a critical role in teaching children about disabilities, helping them understand that differences should be embraced, not feared or misunderstood. By educating our youth about disabilities and promoting inclusivity, we are building a generation that will continue to push for change, ensuring a more accessible world for all.

Additionally, workplaces and organisations must continue to evolve. Promoting inclusive workplaces is not just about hiring people with disabilities—it’s about ensuring that all employees have access to the same opportunities for success, and that the workplace culture is welcoming and supportive. This means educating internal teams about the unique needs of disabled people, ensuring that accommodations are in place, and fostering an environment of respect and understanding.

 

Why Speakers at Conferences and Schools Matter

One of the key ways we can foster inclusivity is through education and conversation. Conferences and school events offer an invaluable opportunity to learn directly from speakers with lived experiences. Speakers who can share their challenges, triumphs, and insights, helping others better understand the diverse experiences of disabled people. A few ICMI speakers that I wanted to highlight include:

 

Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM 

Award-winning doctor, advocate, researcher and co-founder of Doctors with Disabilities Australia, empowering inclusivity through personal experiences.

Rhiannon Tracey 

Epitome of inspiration, transcending challenges to illuminate possibilities as a resilience coach and advocate of access and inclusion in the workplace.

Dylan Alcott AO 

Australian of the Year, Golden Slam winner and disability advocate who aims to help young Australians with a disability achieve their goals in sport, school and work.

Alexandra Hudson 

Comedy delight, flipping ableist notions with humour with a storytelling approach that’s equal parts entertaining and enlightening.

 

Jay Stevens 

First paraplegic to walk to base camp of Mount Everest without a wheelchair and an inspirational speaker with powerful lessons on determination and resilience.

Beau Vernon 

Pride of Australia medal holder, successful AFL coach, disability advocate and director of Interact Australia, helping people with disabilities integrate into the workforce.

Elly Desmarchelier

Proud disabled woman and disability rights advocate who came to prominence as the national spokesperson for the Defend Our NDIS campaign.

Karni Liddell 

Paralympian, businesswoman, commentator, counsellor and disability champion with an inspirational story and practical insights on how to support loved ones with a disability.

 

Troy Sachs OAM 

A beacon of limitless potential and resilience after overcoming a foot amputation at age two and going on to have an incredible career as a Paralympic basketball athlete.

 

By creating spaces where disabled voices are heard, we not only raise awareness but also promote empathy and action. Listening to these stories helps to challenge misconceptions, reduce stigma, and inspire positive change.

On this day, we’re reminded that disability should never define someone’s worth or limit their potential. People with disabilities are capable of achieving extraordinary things, and it’s important that we, as a society, create an environment where these achievements can be recognised and celebrated

 

Interested in booking a speaker for International Day of People with Disability? Call us now on 1800 334 625 or make an enquiry online.

 

About the Author. 

Denise has over 30 years experience in corporate management and owning successful businesses. She is a qualified business coach and ICMI Franchisee, who has the insight and ability to understand her clients’ needs and outcomes, allowing her to recommend the best speaker to meet any brief.