Access to Your Community: Reflecting on a Successful Celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2023

On Monday, December 4, 2023, the Trinity Centre for People with Intellectual Disabilities (TCPID) and Inclusion Ireland came together in partnership to co-organise the impactful event, Access to Your Community, held at the Dargan Theatre in Trinity Business School.

The event provided a platform for individuals with intellectual disabilities from across Ireland to share their experiences of living and traveling in their communities. Among the esteemed speakers were TCPID 2nd-year students, Gillian Cronin and Dale O’Neill, who added valuable insights to the discussions.

The occasion, celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2023, aimed to address the removal of physical, technological, and attitudinal barriers within communities. Attendees, including individuals with intellectual disabilities, supporters, representatives from transport companies, support services, and officials, actively engaged in meaningful discussions.

Throughout the event, participants explored examples of good practices from city councils, transport services, and initiatives dedicated to enhancing community accessibility. The Dargan Theatre became a hub of thoughtful dialogue, reflecting the commitment to creating a more inclusive society.

The programme included reflections on ways to improve accessibility in communities, emphasising the collective responsibility to foster inclusivity. The involvement of TCPID 2nd-year students, Gillian Cronin and Dale O’Neill, added a student perspective to the conversation, enriching the discussions with their experiences.

Dale, who participated in a panel discussion, shared his inspiring journey, stating:

"I was inspired by friends who went to Trinity. I looked up to them and heard them talking about going to College. I thought, if they can do that, why can’t I?"

Gillian, who read out a poem entitled Access to my Community, expressed her gratitude through her poetry:

The Trinity panel saw something in me,

Now I am part of their community.

As time goes on,

I began to see,

I can do whatever I want.

With some re-adjustments,

I will succeed."

Click here to read Gillian Cronins poem in full

Co-organised by TCPID and Inclusion Ireland, the 'Access to Your Community' event was a resounding success. As we reflect on this occasion, we remain dedicated to the ongoing work of breaking down barriers and championing accessibility for all.

We extend our gratitude to everyone who participated and contributed to making this event a meaningful and impactful celebration.