Trinity College Disability Week 2nd to the 6th of December

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Trinity College will be celebrating Disability Week from the 2nd to the 6th of December 2024, coinciding with International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on the 3rd of December. This year’s IDPD theme is "United in action to rescue and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for, with, and by persons with disabilities." It emphasises the urgent need to accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs, especially for persons with disabilities who often face marginalisation. The focus will be on creating inclusive, accessible policies and addressing barriers in education, employment, healthcare, and social inclusion.

We will be organising a range of events, and we encourage the entire Trinity community to join us in celebrating this important week by hosting your own activities or events. Details of the programme can be found below:

• ‘Art for Action’ Student Exhibition, Launched by Provost Linda: After the official Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, join us on December 2 at 18:00 as we kickstart Disability Awareness Week. This powerful exhibition uses art, poetry, and visuals to delve into themes of inclusion, accessibility, and the disabling experience. Through creative interpretations of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the exhibitors highlight the challenges faced by disabled individuals while sharing a vision of a world where everyone belongs.
• Cairdeas Community Choir Rehearsal: Join us on Monday, 2nd December at 18:30 in Regent House as we celebrate the end of our first term together with a joyful performance of Christmas carols. The choir fosters inclusion and community, aligning with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by creating an accessible space for everyone to come together and share the joy of music. Singing together also supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by promoting mental well-being and community engagement through creative expression.
• Inclusive Universal Design of Heritage Campuses: On the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, Tuesday, 3rd of December, we will launch our Interview with the Vice Provost for Trinity ED on our socials. You can learn more about how Trinity EDI plans to enhance and ensure intersectional accessibility for all on campus. Aligning with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), the initiative fosters the development of more accessible and inclusive infrastructure at Trinity.
• The Disability Experience: A Panel Discussion. Join members of Sign Soc, DUNeS, the Ability Co_op and Senator Tom Clonan as they answer a series of questions and discuss their personal views on living with a disability. The discussion  will touch on issues such as media representation, the intersection of disability and mental health, and the importance of inclusion. The event supports SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities)and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by emphasising disability rights and inclusive policy-making.
• Adaptive Morning Yoga with DU Yoga Society: An accessible way to engage disabled students with movement and breathwork which takes into consideration all bodies and abilities, with the aim of improving physical and mental wellbeing in line with SDG3 (Good Health and Well-being for everyone). Additionally, the workshop supports Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by ensuring that people of all abilities have equal opportunities to engage in health-promoting activities. By creating an inclusive space for yoga, you're fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment, helping participants to connect with their bodies in ways that respect their individual needs and abilities.
• LENS and Personal Advocacy Workshop: This interactive session will bring together students and staff to explore the LENS report system, share experiences, and address challenges in its development and implementation. Aligned with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, this initiative supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by empowering students to advocate for their mental and emotional well-being, while also promoting SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through the removal of barriers to full participation.
• Supporting Neurodivergent Employees: Research Presentation. Dr. Claire Gleeson from the Discipline of Occupational Therapy, Trinity College Dublin will discuss research on how to Support Neurodivergent Employees transitioning from university  to the workplace. This presentation will present the unique perspectives of neurodivergent individuals during this pivotal period and will provide valuable insights into the challenges and successes they face in navigating the world of work. Claire’s research sheds light on the support systems, and strategies that can enable one to create more inclusive and accessible work environments for neurodivergent individuals.
• Launch: 2025 Summer Inclusive Internship Programme. After a hugely successful 2024 programme, this launch and information session will offer prospective employers insights on how to get involved, including how to implement inclusive employment practices and provide opportunities for persons with disabilities to gain work experience. This initiative aligns with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
• ‘Now You See Me’ Poster Campaign Launch: Ability Co_op raise awareness through this campaign to promote accessibility and inclusion across the campus, aligning with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by making spaces more inclusive and responsive to the needs of students with disabilities.