On 3rd December, communities around the world come together to honour the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) — a UN-designated day that recognises the importance of building societies where everyone can participate fully and equally.
This year’s theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” guided our celebrations in the most joyful and meaningful way.
Over the weekend, the Enabling Network team hosted Magic, Music & Merriment, a vibrant community event that brought together attendees, ranging from 2 to 90 years old, including people with physical, learning and neurodivergent disabilities, as well as those without disabilities. The evening was a true reflection of what inclusion looks like when it’s embraced wholeheartedly.
A delicious shared meal set the scene, followed by astonishing table magic from a mentalist-style magician that delighted guests of all ages. The energy lifted even further when everyone joined in a Flash-Mob style group dance — a moment that captured the heart of the evening. From that point on, the dance floor became a space without barriers, without inhibitions, and without limits. People of all abilities celebrated side by side in an atmosphere filled with joy, confidence and belonging.
Here’s what some of the attendees had to say:
“”We have been to may events that want to be inclusive but don’t always achieve it. This event showed what true inclusion looks like where there was no difference in anyone.”
“All we can say is Wow, Wow, Wow – an absolutely fantastic event. We had an amazing evening and felt that it was truly inclusive.”
Thank you to everyone who joined, supported, and celebrated with us. Together, we’re building a community where everyone belongs, and where inclusion isn’t just a goal — it’s a lived experience.
For more details on Enabling Network, contact en@oshwal.org
Photos and videos courtesy of Sandeep and Bhavini Shah (K Studio Photography).