To Passmores School this evening for an event of much extravaganza. I was there as a guest of Ann Wafula Strike for the launch of her new charity, the Disability Empowerment Association.
This was a very special launch: it was held in the presence of Mrs Kezia Obama, (the step-mother to the U.S. President), and a number of other distinguished guests. We were treated to a wide array of dance, music, a fashion show and sumptuous African food.
It was fascinating to meet Mrs Obama and I wondered what had brought her from Kenya to Bracknell in Berkshire - where she now lived. She was clearly a woman of great dignity.
Ann had asked me to give a speech, which I was very glad to do. My main points were that her new organisation would be transforming - because it was about opportunity to those who wanted to succeed. I noted that despite having a bad leg, I never felt 'disabled' as such. In fact I never see anyone as disabled, just that we all have different abilities and advantages and disadvantages.
I also suggested that the emblem of DES (as you can see above) would make a far better sign than that of current disabled symbols, such as the dreaded blue car parking badge. Simply because it shows individuals with their hands in the air, rather than a stereotype of someone sitting in a chair.
P.S. Pictures thanks to the excellent Everything Harlow website.
by Robert Halfon - www.roberthalfon.blogspot.com
by Robert Halfon - www.roberthalfon.blogspot.com
