Proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) is observed annually on 3 December to promote the rights and well-being of PWDs in all spheres of society and development, and to raise awareness of the situation facing PWDs in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

In that spirit, Mr Ricky CHU Man-kin, EOC Chairperson attended two events this week, namely the Award Ceremony of the Inclusive Environment Recognition Scheme on 3 December, co-organised by the Hong Kong Joint Council for PWDs and the Hong Kong Council of Social Service, and the 47th anniversary gathering of the Hong Kong Federation of the Blind on 4 December. Mr Chu will also be attending the Charity Walk hosted by Ebenezer School and Home for the Visually Impaired as an officiating guest this Sunday (8 December), to cheer for students with visual impairment and their family.

“Over the past few months, damage to some of the city’s public facilities, including barrier-free facilities, has heightened the difficulty and risk for PWDs to navigate around Hong Kong independently,” said Mr Chu. “We urge all members of society to be more sensitive to the needs of PWDs, and to demonstrate a greater commitment to safeguarding the fundamental rights and well-being of marginalised communities.”

Separately, the EOC has recently uploaded a video onto its YouTube channel, featuring highlights from a public education event held in October in collaboration with Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) Radio 1 to champion equal opportunities for PWDs. The event included experience-sharing sessions by PWDs as well as performances by local singers. Click the link below to view the video now!

• Watch the video
• More on the International Day of PWDs
• About the Inclusive Environment Recognition Scheme