January 20th is a very special day. It’s the International Day of Acceptance. The objective of the day is “to achieve social acceptance of disability.” The day honors the late Annie Hopkins, the founder of 3E Love and the creator of the International Symbol of Acceptance. 3E Love is a social entrepreneurial awareness experiment.
One in Five Americans Have a Disability
According the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, “Today, about 50 million Americans, or 1 in 5 people, are living with at least one disability, and most Americans will experience a disability some time during the course of their lives. Anyone can have a disability.” Disabilities are not just for the sick and the elderly. A person can become disabled because of a car accident, workplace accident or accident at home.
Ways You Can Show Acceptance and Support to the Disabled
There are a number of different ways you can show acceptance. For example, organizers of the event suggest sharing your opinions with friends. This is an opportunity that you have to advocate for the disabled. Each person is unique in their own special way. Encourage others to speak out for the disabled through your choice of words and actions.
Band together with other supporters. Organize an event at your workplace, through a local charity that you volunteer with, at the club you’re a member of or the school that you attend. Educate others about disabilities so that they, too, can become a voice for the disabled.
Wear the International Symbol of Acceptance
Organizers also encourage people to outwardly show their support by wearing the International Symbol of Acceptance. One of the easiest ways to do just that is to wear a t-shirt or hoodie or to attach a pin to a jacket or backpack. That’s a great way to start a conversation with someone about disabilities.
To learn more about International Day of Acceptance, Anne Hopkins or 3E Love, please visit http://www.dayofacceptance.com. We’ve had the distinct pleasure of working with the organization and want to wish them the best of luck planning and executing their next event. After all, it’s everyone’s responsibility to show acceptance and support for the disabled members of their community.