International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025: Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Social Progress

Every year on December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) reminds us that inclusion is not just a goal — it is a collective responsibility. This day celebrates accessibility, equity, and full participation for people with disabilities while encouraging governments, organizations, and communities to advance meaningful change.

The 2025 theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress”, highlights the importance of empowering people with disabilities across all parts of society.

What Do Disability-Inclusive Societies Look Like?

Disability inclusion is not one single action – it’s the result of many interconnected efforts woven into everyday life. From policy change to sports, design, technology, and tourism, the movement toward accessibility is continuously growing—and is being driven by real people, creating real stories and impact.

Representation in Law & Policy

Disabled policymakers are reshaping governments and legislation worldwide. Representation at decision-making tables ensures the voices of disabled people are being heard and represented. Examples include:

• Javed Abidi – A leading disability rights activist who influenced landmark accessibility and education policies through his work with India’s National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP).

• Haben Girma – As the first Deafblind graduate of Harvard Law School, Girma advocates for disability justice globally and has influenced international digital accessibility practices. 

• Stephanie Cadieux – Appointed as the Government of Canada’s first Chief Accessibility Officer in May 2022 – Ms. Cadieux is a member of the disability community, using a wheelchair since the age of 18.  Her lived experience allows her to have a deep understanding of accessibility issues faced by people with disabilities.

Empowerment Through Sports

Inclusive societies recognize the power of accessible physical activity to build confidence, strengthen community, and show real representation. Sport and physical movement benefits everyone, and ensuring accessible pathways to participation is the first step in getting people involved. 

• Neurodiverse Sport – An organization dedicated to creating neuroinclusive environments in sport, offering tools, training, and community-based programs to empower neurodivergent athletes to thrive.

• WeThe15Campaign – A global movement led by the International Paralympic Committee that aims to represent 15% of the world’s population with disabilities. Through powerful storytelling and international sport partnerships, WeThe15 strives for greater visibility, rights, and inclusion.

• The Invictus Games – Founded by Prince Harry, the Invictus Games spotlight the athletic achievements of wounded, injured, and sick service members and veterans. Beyond competition, the Games focus on mental health, community, and healing. Here is a recap of the 2025 highlights.

• Adidas Launches New Adaptive Shoes – “Equal access to sports for everybody is the goal”. In 2026, Adidas will be launching the first ever adaptive shoe built by and for the Down syndrome community – designed to support the unique needs of their feet. Learn more here. 

Inclusive Technological Design

From accessible learning tools to assistive devices and inclusive digital platforms, technology plays an integral role in creating inclusive environments for everyone.

Disabled-Owned Businesses 

Entrepreneurs with disabilities continue to transform industries with innovative and community-centered design:

• Cup of Té – A wellness tea brand founded by disability advocate Taylor Lindsay-Noel

• IZ Adaptive – Fashion-forward adaptive clothing designed by Izzy Camilleri

• Two Blind Brothers – Soft basics built on a mission to support blindness research. 100% of the profits are donated to Foundation Fighting Blindness to help find a cure for blindness.

Inclusive Travel and Tourism  

Accessible travel is key to building disability-inclusive societies. When cities, transit systems, hotels, and attractions remove barriers, they open the doors for everyone to experience travelling with more ease and dignity.

We have explored several internationally accessible travel and tourism experiences over the years:

• Airline Accessibility Policies: Delta & Air Canada (2024) 
  A breakdown of what travellers can expect when flying with mobility devices, assistive equipment, or support needs — including tips for planning a safe and smooth trip.

• Accessible Entertainment in Toronto
  Eight venues across the city, from sports arenas to theatres, demonstrating what inclusive arts and culture can look like.

• Travel-Friendly Wheelchairs
  A guide to choosing wheelchairs designed for mobility, independence, and ease while traveling. Eight venues across the city, from sports arenas to theatres, demonstrating what inclusive arts and culture can look like.

• Accessible Fort Lauderdale Travel Guide
  A full itinerary showcasing beaches, parks, restaurants, adaptive experiences, and barrier-free attractions in Fort Lauderdale. 

At AccessNow, we are committed to honouring the past, celebrating the present, and continuing to build a future where accessibility is celebrated and included. 

IDPD is a reminder that:

• Accessibility must be built in to the systems first – not as an afterthought.

• Disability inclusion requires ongoing efforts. 

• Disability representation matters across all sectors. 

• And most importantly, to not forget: nothing about us, without us.

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