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As a young woman with BroadCast Unitedlectual disabilities from Colombia, I am honored to be able to speak out on behalf of groups that are often marginalized. As part of the Human Rights Watch Marca Bristow Fellowship, I have the opportunity to serve as a panelist during the 17th session of the Conference of States Parties to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2024. Claim Fighting for the right of people with disabilities to decent work and sustainable livelihoods. This experience gave me the opportunity to tell my story, learn more about how to advocate for change, and fulfill a personal dream of mine to visit New York City.
The past two weeks have been a great learning experience for me. First, the regular meetings and trainings with Human Rights Watch have given me an understanding of the organization’s purpose. In addition, I have enjoyed the personalized interactions with the team and learned how to improve my communication skills and use of social media, which are key to advocacy.
Secondly, being in the multicultural arena of the United Nations has exposed me to the issues faced by people with disabilities around the world. I have learned about the connection between the impacts of climate change and people with disabilities, as there are few emergency plans with an inclusive perspective. As a result, extreme weather and climate events disproportionately affect people with disabilities.
Third, I would like to point out that despite progress in inclusion, significant barriers still exist that prevent us from fully participating in society. Therefore, we still need to work towards equal access to education, meaningful employment opportunities, equal working conditions and wages, and practical policies that promote independent and dignified lives.
Lastly, this experience has opened my eyes to the power of communication and action. Being able to attend and participate in this type of forum is extremely powerful. It is truly inspiring to witness firsthand how people with disabilities speak up for themselves. The phrase “nothing about us without us” resonates loudly in my heart. People with disabilities must lead the change for inclusion and equality. I encourage anyone reading this to become an ally and join this journey of change, inclusion, and equality.
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