Rally for better inclusion in schools

Media release – 22 September 2016

Protesters are expected on the steps of Parliament today, united against the government’s recent policy announcements about including students with disabilities.

The family-friendly Education for All Rally kicks off at Parliament at 4.30pm has a message for Government: Investment is needed for an education system that responds to the rights of every learner to fully participate and succeed.

IHC is a member of Education for All, which has organized today’s rally. We come together in response to frustration and concern expressed by disabled people, families and education and disability organisations, about the recently announced update of special education. The update shifts resources rather that injecting new investment in disabled children and schools.

IHC Director of Advocacy Trish Grant says there is a broad base of support for an inclusive education system that resources children with disabilities and schools properly. IHC is in ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Education, regarding its legal action against the Government that alleges disabled children experience discrimination at school.

“While we acknowledge that there are some positive aspects in the update, they will take time to embed and families and schools are worried that children and young people with disabilities in the system now will be worse off.

“Recent reports from Youthlaw and the Human Rights Commission back up these concerns. The rally today confirms that it is not just IHC that believes the current system does not guarantee a fair deal for children and young people with disabilities at school. We’re calling on the Government to provide education for all and we want a real investment in inclusion,” she says.

Education for All Rally
4.30pm today
Parliament Building Wellington

For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/184302395332651/

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