Minister for Equalities Dr Brian Gibbons joined forces with leading disability organisations today [Saturday 7 June] to raise awareness of the rights of disabled people.
Speaking at Wales’s first ever Disability Pride event the Minister said it remains an unfortunate reality that disabled people can still face discrimination on a daily basis.
Dr Gibbons said:
The barriers that disabled people face every day include many things that most of us take for granted, such as access to shops, restaurants and bars. These barriers must be challenged wherever they arise.
The Assembly Government recognise that many of the barriers that disabled people face are not just physical but the result of society’s perceptions and is committed to removing all barriers.
Our One Wales agenda aims to create a Wales where everyone achieves their full potential and can live free from discrimination and abuse and I am committed to making this a reality.
The Single Equality Scheme, which is currently out to consultation, sets out the Assembly Government’s clear commitment to promoting diversity and equality. It highlights priority areas for action based on the human rights principles of fairness, respect, equality and dignity.
Disabled people make an enormous contribution to Wales. I am delighted that the Assembly Government has supported Disability Pride as it is a great way for disabled and non-disabled people to campaign for the elimination of discrimination as one voice.
