Poland
participants
This event was organised in scope of Social Impact Days.
The goal of the Festival of Independent Living, organised by the Podlaskie Assembly of People with Disabilities and the Foundation Center for Initiatives for Society, with partnership of ESN Poland, was to create a space to promote the independence of people with disabilities. The event aimed to inspire, educate, and integrate the community of individuals with various disabilities through diverse forms of activity and a comprehensive program.
Through sessions, meetings, lectures, and workshops, the festival focused on various aspects of the lives of people with disabilities, showcasing their successes, challenges, and efforts to achieve independence. The program also included topics related to mobility, social activity, and education about different forms of disabilities, providing society with a better understanding and support for individuals with such experiences.
Additionally, the festival promoted equality and active participation of people with disabilities in various areas of life, such as the academic environment or popular culture. By organizing such events, the initiators of the festival aimed to build social awareness, change stereotypes, and encourage the full participation of people with disabilities in societal life.
The Festival of Independent Living was part of the "Włączamy Mobilność" project, financially supported by Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway through the EEA and Norway Grants, as part of the Active Citizens Program - Regional Fund.
Event Highlights:
- Start: The festival kicked off at 2:00 PM with a grand opening ceremony.
- Speed Friending (2:30 PM – 3:00 PM): Attendees had the chance to meet Mobility Ambassadors. A unique opportunity to connect and pose questions to selected Mobility Ambassadors.
- Let’s Talk Session (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM):
- Traveler of Senses: Dr. Rafał Kuczyński, a blind philosopher and traveler, shared insights into exploring the world using senses other than sight.
- Assistance Means Independence: Dr. Maciej Oksztulski delved into the challenges faced by individuals on the autism spectrum in academic and international settings, emphasizing the role of personal assistance in fostering independence.
- #ŻYĆKO (4:00 PM – 5:30 PM): Emilia Więcek, creator of the Ekipa Kazika profile, held a discussion on utilizing social media to share personal stories and build virtual support communities.
- DISA{BE}LITY Workshop (5:30 PM – 7:30 PM): Creative sessions on femininity in collaboration with the KISS organization, exploring the intersection of womanhood and disability.
- Equality Quiz (7:30 PM – 8:30 PM): Kahoot Quiz on Disability in Popular Culture – an entertaining and educational session.
