December 3rd is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. A day to recognize the undeniable contributions of people with physical or cognitive disabilities that make our planet a better place. Established by the United Nations in 1992, it’s meant to raise awareness and foster inclusion in communities at home and around the world.
The Developmental Disabilities Association has been at the forefront of community living and inclusion for over 70 years. When our founder, Leola Purdy, petitioned the provincial government for support for her son and many other families in 1952, DDA was born. It didn’t stop there.
When the first special needs school was created in BC, we were there.
When the walls of institutions in BC came tumbling down, we were there.
When community living began, we were there.
When inclusion became a household word, we drove it there.
When attitudes started to shift in a positive way, we pushed even harder.
Why December 3rd Matters
Too often, disability is framed as an individual challenge rather than a societal responsibility. IDPD shifts that narrative. It highlights the truth we see every day in the work we do.
Accessibility is not a privilege. Inclusion is not optional. Participation is not a favour.
Communities thrive when people with disabilities are fully included—not just in principle, but in practice. When public spaces are accessible, workplaces are welcoming, digital tools are designed with everyone in mind, and policies recognize the dignity and rights of all citizens, society becomes stronger, fairer, and more human.
The work is not always easy. True accessibility requires intention, time, and sometimes uncomfortable honesty about what isn’t working. But progress happens every day, and it happens because people care enough to push for it.
We are proud of the progress we’ve made, but we know there’s more to do. And we are committed to the long work ahead. Together, step by step, we can build communities where people of all abilities are not simply accommodated—they are welcomed, valued, and empowered.
On December 3rd, and every day after, let’s continue creating a world where everyone has what they need to live fully.
