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Poetic Disability (International Day of People with Disability 2025)

 Every year on this day the 3rd of December people around the world celebrate the achievements and abilities of those who live with disabilities. 

This is important because people with disabilities deserve to be an equal part of our society. 

For me though International Day of People with Disability always brings up complicated feelings. On one hand I enjoy that people finally recognise my contribution to the community; on the other I want to be recognised without my disability being a factor. 

It is going to sound weird but I have fought so long to be "just Chris" that the focus of International Day of People with Disability makes my day to day struggles feel like they have a spotlight on them. 

I know that there are things in my life I have achieved because of my disability but there are many more things in my life I haven't been able to do for the same reason. 

This year's theme fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress is what people with disabilities have been fighting for since the beginning of time. 

When we are all equal, able bodied and disabled alike, then there will be true social progress.

My ultimate dream is that International Day of People with Disability will be taken off the calendar because we will just be recognised as powerful individuals. 

I have to admit that I would not be a poet without my poetic disability. 


Making Progress

Living with a disability there are so many things you are left to guess;

Will my muscles work today? Will there be any steps? Will I make any progress?

Society fights inclusion ;

While creating a pretty illusion.


People with disabilities will keep moving forward until our rights are near;

We know it's going to take more than one day a year.

People with disabilities across the globe have united nations;

To amplify our voices in all the world's stations.


When my life feels normal I win.

Wanting everything you do is not a sin.

Hearing every yes;

Means people with disabilities are making progress. 


© Chris Van Ingen | 3 December 2025

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