Disabled people across New Zealand are preparing to celebrate Disability Pride Week from 26 November to 3 December – the
International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Disability Pride Week is an annual event which aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and to mobilise
support for the dignity, rights and wellbeing of people with disabilities. Individuals and groups around the country are
encouraged to think of creative ways to express ‘Disability Pride’ and challenge how people see disability, raising
awareness that disability is a natural and beautiful part of human diversity.
Disabled people make up 25 percent (1.1 million) of the New Zealand population. “We are New Zealand’s largest minority
group and it’s time to claim our place in society” says Nick Ruane, event co-convenor with Rachel Noble.
“We’ve really noticed over the last three years of hosting this event that the idea of Disability Pride is becoming more
widely accepted and people are recognising its value. This year we really want to keep the momentum going. We want to
extend the conversations which explore Disability Pride and its vital role as a tool towards achieving disability
rights” says Rachel.
Events planned for this year include a rally at Parliament on Wednesday 28 November from 12.30-2pm, featuring a wearable
arts parade and a performance by The Avalanche Band. Resource kits for raising disability awareness in schools will also
be available, on request.
People can register an event or look out for upcoming events on the www.disabilityprideaotearoa.nz website or by
following the event on Facebook www.facebook.com/DisabilityPrideAotearoa.