Today Papua New Guinea celebrates its National Disability Day. The Madang Disability Group worked together to host the Province's largest and most engaging disability day yet! The theme was Bung Wantaim, Wok Wantaim, Stap Wantaim (Come together, work together and stay together). The Governor was the key speaker and other governmental officials gave speeches and recognition during the event including the Mayor (who has a disability as a result of being shot by the police before "God saved him from his life as a criminal").
The Day started with a parade of floats, singsing groups including a bamboo band who uses flip flops to drum the music! It was incredible! A brass band, drums, traditional dancers, songs in sign language, ability sports, and a comedy act by PNG's famous comedian Kanage! A huge crowd swarmed the event! There were over 10 stalls filled with awareness materials and resources from various partners who are working in the area of disability and equal participation.
Mi Wankain Olsem Yu! I am like you! The message of the day was to respect persons with disabilities as people with equal rights. I believe Bro Adrian, a person with disabilities who is a leader in disability rights in the country, got it right when he said, "Don't give us pity or tears. If you want to help us give us jobs, open your schools and your businesses."
Today was one of my best days in Papua New Guinea!
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