Townhall meeting for society of disabled persons

By: Shanique Harvey

Basseterre, St. Kitts, December 9, 2019 (ZIZ News): The St. Kitts-Nevis Association of Persons with Disabilities (SKNAPD) held a town-hall meeting on Thursday at the McKnight Community Center in commemoration of “International day of persons with disabilities”.

Among the panelists were Minister of Social Services,the Hon. Eugene Hamilton, Former President of the SKNAPD Anthony Mills & current President Joseph Bergan, as well as President of St.Kitts Society for the Blind Mr. Rockliffe Bowen.

The panel covered topics such as the UN Convention on Human Rights, building codes, access to the job market, sheltered employment, job training, traffic lights and disabled parking.

Mr. Bowen first raised the issue concerning the difficulty of maneuvering the streets as a differently-abled person noting that he would want this concern to be addressed.

In his opening remarks Minister Hamilton outlined the principles addressed within the UN Convention on Human Rights.

“The United Nations Convention on Human Rights addresses some important principles. The principle of respect for inherent dignity, individual autonomy including the freedom to make one’s own choices and independence of persons. The convention includes non-discrimination in includes full and effective participation and inclusion in society, equality of opportunity, accessibility, equality between men and women.”

The SKNAPD’s week of activities commemorating “International Day of Persons with Disabilities” wrapped up with a Social Evening and karaoke competition on Friday and a fun day on Saturday.