Formentera stands up for rights of people with disabilities

foto 2020 DPDF 2One event in particular was at the heart of today’s celebration of International Day of People with Disabilities: ‘Cultivating values’ brought together members of Formentera associations at the adult day care centre, where volunteers planted eight trees and, alongside them, posted signs emblazoned with eight different rights —inclusive education; comprehensive care; healthcare; social protections; independent decision-making; participation in public affairs; personal independence and universal accessibility.

After the event, Yolanda Mota Rodríguez, whose daughter has Down syndrome, read a manifesto which included the following: “Today, a day dedicated to people with different abilities, we plant these trees for their rights. Our hope is that one day the struggle to achieve those rights will be in the past”. “We hope our trees grow roots as strong as the roots of families in need of orientation, support, help and resources... Education is inclusive when we all learn from each other. When watered with unconditional love, it bears the fruit of a rich society where respect for diversity is a reality.”

From 11.00am to 1.00pm in Sant Francesc’s Plaça de la Constitució, local functional diversity groups tended an information stand and sold products handcrafted by islanders at the adult day care centre.

Collaborators in activities include the Eivissa-Formentera Association of People with Special Needs (Apneef); Pau Mayans Association for the Integration of People on the Autism Spectrum (Apmitea); the local chapter of the Spanish Cancer Association (Formentera-AECC); the local support group for chemical sensitivity, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia and other conditions; the Eivissa-Formentera Group for Advanced Capacities and Talents (ACTEF) and the Pine Islands Group for Social and Educational Inclusion (APIES).

Drafting the comprehensive plan for people with functional diversity
Social welfare councillor Rafael Ramírez underlined “the outstanding work that these associations and families put in to build visibility for individuals with disabilities” and said local government had “a key role to play in making sure we get there”. In that same regard, the councillor pointed to efforts already under way to prepare a comprehensive plan for people with functional diversity: “It will be a tool to achieve full respect of the rights that we’re talking about today”.

As part of an activties programme hosted in association with Formentera Film and Soria International Short Film Fest, at 7.00pm on 11, 18, 22 and 29 December, islanders can catch an array of short-films about diversity and inclusion. The first screening will take place at Casa del Poble de la Mola, the following three at the Sala d’Actes of the Consell. Space is limited and reservations are required: administració.centredia@conselldeformentera.cat.

And, all December long, island crowds can see Alexis and Bruno Morante’s Bla, Bla, Bla before Friday and Sunday night films at the Formentera cinema (Sala de Cultura).

3 December 2020
Communications Department
Consell de Formentera