Honoring the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Through Creative Arts

In celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 and Human Rights Day on December 10, the United Nations Information Center (UNIC) and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) are hosting “Our Rights, Our Future Film Tour.” The event, themed “Empowered Persons with Disabilities, Inclusivity for All,” showcases the resilience and creativity of persons with disabilities through film, art, and fashion, promoting inclusivity.

Running from December 5 to 7, 2024, at Taman Ismail Marzuki in Jakarta, the programme includes screenings, art exhibitions, inclusive fashion shows, and workshops. Organized in partnership with Bumilangit, the United Nations Association of Indonesia (UNAI), and the International Labour Organization (ILO), the event also supports inclusive employment through the “Decent Work for All” campaign.

“This event is about solutions, about celebrating humanity, and people with diverse sets of abilities and their creativity,” said Miklos Gaspar, Director of UNIC  Jakarta. “Art and fashion as powerful mediums, and we invite the public to see that.”

A highlight of the event is the screening of “Sundul Langit,” a film directed by a blind filmmaker with a script written by a deaf writer. It tells the story of a deaf student navigating an inclusive school. “This film is proof that every person has a story worth telling and the talent to tell it,” said Basuki from Sahabat Mata, the community behind the film. “Our hope is that it inspires others to see abilities rather than limitations.”

Another key feature is the fashion show presented by the Layak Community, which showcases designs that empower persons with disabilities to express themselves with confidence. “Fashion is a universal language,” said XX from Layak. “Through inclusive design, we aim to redefine beauty and empower individuals to embrace their uniqueness.”

Complementing these showcases, an art exhibition will display the work of artists with disabilities, celebrating their perspectives and contributions to creative expression. Workshops led by the ILO and APINDO will provide practical strategies for fostering inclusivity in workplaces, furthering the vision of equality and opportunity for all.

“Through this initiative, we are inviting society to rethink its perceptions and embrace inclusivity,” Mr Gaspar said. “Art and fashion are powerful tools to spark conversations and inspire change.”