December 3, 2009 marks the 27th celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1982, this Day provides an opportunity to showcase to the work that we do promoting public awareness and understanding of disability issues. It is a time to further mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. We do this by promoting the benefits of full citizenship for everyone, including political, social, economic and cultural inclusion.

Vancouver’s 2009 International Day of Persons with Disabilities is a free public event at the Roundhouse Community Centre, highlighting the achievements of persons with disabilities in sports, arts and culture. Activities include a proclamation by Mayor Gregor Robertson, art exhibits, live music, playing wheelchair basketball with National-level athletes and displays and exhibits from disability-related organizations.

The event is hosted in partnership with the office of Olympic and Paralympic Operations under the ‘Host a City Happening’ Departmental Program, 2010 Legacies Now, disability-related organizations, the Union of BC Municipalities, and Vancouver City departments. Special guests this year also include the Olympics Mascots. For more information about Vancouver’s celebration, visit www.vancouverdisabilitiesday.ca