As the months passed, he found it increasingly difficult to walk, eventually requiring a wheelchair for mobility. I made a heartbreaking decision.
Gibson recognized a lack of disability representation at all levels of government. He decided to organize his program of community outreach, advocating for improved support, and using data collected from surveys supported by the PNG-Australia partnership to bring the Bulolo Disability Association (BDA) to formed. This is an organization that acts as a voice for change.
Through the establishment of the association, Gibson said, people with disabilities have a voice and are more aware of their rights to access government services, including legal and judicial services.
It was not an easy task to gather people with disabilities to form an association. People have different disabilities, have different needs and all need to be addressed to ensure participation.
The most important challenges are people’s mindsets, negative attitudes and assumptions that many people make about people with disabilities.
“Most people want money,” says Gibson. “The public view is shallow, so let’s be clear about this. [association] It’s not a charity, it’s a voice and a vehicle for change. “
“We advocate equal treatment for all people with disabilities. They are part of the community.”
With support from Australia through the PNG-Australia Partnership, the BDA last year supported the Morobe Family and Sexual Violence Action Committee to organize training on leadership and financial literacy for people with disabilities. Caregivers with the skills and knowledge needed to enrich their lives.
There is much to be done. Unemployment and illiteracy among persons with disabilities are high.
“Through the activities of the association and the projects we carry out, we hope that people with disabilities can be changed and empowered,” he says.
Gibson supports the central government’s vision of leaving no one behind, and the BDA wants to use this opportunity to empower people with disabilities to contribute to the development of their communities, districts and states. I’m here.
