Sharing moments of disability joy and pride.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) takes place every year on December 3. This annual event reminds us to better understand disabilities, and promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in our communities.
This year, Easter Seals Ontario collaborated with Kalea Davies, our 2013 Provincial Easter Seals Ambassador, to develop and informational video series about disability for social media.
“The purpose of the series is to highlight the prevailing humanity of disabled people,” shares Kalea. “Our disabilities are not our whole story, but instead a small detail that makes up the puzzle of our lives. The best way to demonstrate this is to hear the voices of those with disabilities directly. The goal is simply to showcase disabled joy and pride.”
To create the series, we engaged former Provincial Ambassadors Daniella Altieri and Casey MacKay, along with an Easter Seals camper, Jacob Booth. Kalea also produced her own video that will kick off the series on Thursday, November 30, 2023.
“The purpose of series is to highlight the prevailing humanity of disabled people,” shares Kalea. “Our disabilities are not our whole story, but instead a small detail that makes up the puzzle of our lives. The best way to demonstrate this is to hear the voices of those with disabilities directly. The goal is simply to showcase disabled joy and pride.”
“One of the things I wish people knew about me is that my life is full of light, and love, and some of the best friends in the world… My life is not burdenous, or painful, or pitiful. One of the things I have been grateful for because of my disability is my ability to adapt and be innovative, and truly understand the meaning of never giving up.” – Kalea Davies, 2013 Provincial Easter Seals Ambassador
“The good thing about having a disability is that I can teach others that we’re all human and that they all need to accept us for who we are… What I like people to see about me, is that I am brave and resilient and that no matter what injury, no matter what problems we all face, we’re all human, and we all face the challenges together.” – Jacob Booth, Easter Seals Ontario Camper
“What I would like people to know about my disability and about me is that it doesn’t affect you. And I don’t let it stop me from being who I am. It doesn’t control who I am. It’s a part of my life. But I don’t let it take on my day. I don’t let it affect my day. I just move on, and I don’t let it control me. And I shouldn’t have to.” – Daniella Altieri, 2020-21 Provincial Easter Seals Ambassador
“One thing I would like people to know about me is I’m just like anyone else. Even though I may have a disability, it takes me a bit longer to do certain things, and that’s okay. People just need to be patient with me.” – Casey MacKay, 2009 Provincial Easter Seals Ambassador
“One thing I would like people to know about me is I’m just like anyone else. Even though I may have a disability, it takes me a bit longer to do certain things and that’s okay. People just need to be patient with me.”
Through the heartfelt IDPD messages of Kalea Davies, Daniella Altieri, Casey MacKay, and Jacob Booth, we’re reminded that disabilities are just one facet of a rich and resilient tapestry of life. These individuals shine a light on the diverse talents, strengths, and aspirations that exist within the disability community, underscoring the importance of embracing inclusivity, fostering understanding, and championing equal opportunities for all. Their stories serve as powerful reminders that by celebrating our differences, we create a more compassionate and equitable world for everyone. You can view the full series on our social media accounts @EasterSealsON.
Happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities!