Show Celebrates Performers with Disabilities

Show Celebrates Performers with Disabilities

Nova Scotia joins the United Nations in marking Dec. 3 as International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The theme for 1998 is Arts, Culture and Independent Living.

"All citizens, of all abilities, have a right to develop their artistic potential and to express themselves creatively," said Francene Cosman, Minister responsible for the Nova Scotia Disabled Persons Commission.

This year, the Atlantic Provinces Special Education Authority (APSEA) and the Nova Scotia Disabled Persons Commission are hosting a celebration of the talents of Nova Scotians with disabilities through a concert entitled Art Is Ability.

The performers are people with disabilities who are participating in APSEA's Community Arts Access Program.

"APSEA's innovative arts program is an excellent example of how people with disabilities can find expression through participation in cultural activities," said Education and Culture Minister Robbie Harrison.

The Community Arts Access Program offers classes in theatre arts, visual arts, literary arts, music and dance, after school, in the evening and during the summer. Since the program's inception in 1997, some 238 children and adults with disabilities have received individual and group instruction.

The General Assembly of the United Nations adopted, in 1982, the World Program of Action Concerning Disabled Persons. In 1992, the assembly proclaimed Dec. 3 as the International Day of Disabled Persons.

The day is designed to promote awareness and understanding of disability issues and trends. It also mobilizes support for practical action at all levels by, with and for persons with disabilities to improve their well-being and livelihoods on the basis of equality.