The slogan of the event: ‘Inclusion in action’
This slogan is not just words, declarations or good intentions. For us, it means practical steps that change people's lives (not only people with disabilities, but absolutely everyone): accessible spaces, accessible services, new opportunities for participation in the community. It is also about the daily actions of each of us — from how we communicate and treat diversity to how we make decisions in our work or public life.
So, under this slogan, on 22 August in Chernivtsi, more than a hundred people with different experiences, from different cities and countries, but with a common desire to build a barrier-free society, came together.
We talked about how the community environment shapes quality of life, independence and comfort, shared stories of overcoming challenges and sought new solutions for qualitative changes in communities.
During the forum, there were two panel discussions, three short presentations of successful inclusive practices, a ‘living library’ with six ‘living books,’ and a lot of networking.
Participants listened to stories about how the community environment can either limit a person or inspire/motivate them. About how true independence begins with the ability to move freely, have access to services, be heard and accepted.
The forum was filled with a wealth of truly powerful opinions, ideas and decisions. So we will tell you about each part of the programme in separate publications that will appear on our pages in the coming days.
We would like to thank everyone who strengthened us as a team, who had the courage to speak up, who was willing to share, and who took action. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who became part of this event.
‘Inclusion in Action’ — real change happens when ideas become practice and values become daily actions.
A photo report from the event is available for download at https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/19O9pYOM-wMn5zIDqGhB8J28_OXleS1Tb?usp=drive_link
The VII International Forum on Inclusion was organised by the Chernivtsi Association ‘Zahyst’ with the support of IM Swedish Development Partner.
