People have gathered to celebrate those living with disabilities in the city. On Tuesday, Mayor Bill Given proclaimed December 3rd International Day of Persons with Disabilities in Grande Prairie.
“This is a chance for us to recognize that these people are contributing members of our society and of our city; they’re our friends, neighbours and family members and a chance to recognize those contributions at least once a year is an important opportunity,” Given says.
International Day of Persons with disabilities is celebrated nationwide and was first recognized by the United Nations in 1992. It has been celebrated in Grande Prairie for the last few years.
MS Society Coordinator Carla Holton says this year’s event sold out with 100 people coming together to celebrate inclusion and breaking down barriers.
Over the last few years, Holton says she has been working with a number of groups in the area to do just that.
“[We’ve been] working with the city on things such as snow removal for those individuals that can’t get out and shovel the end of their driveway; working with the Downtown Association, looking at who needs ramps coming in and out of their business so everyone can access their store or business.”
A luncheon was held at Teresa Sargent Hall to mark the occasion.