Celebrating Inclusion with Circability this International Day of Persons with Disabilities

3 December marks the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities - a global call to champion inclusion, remove barriers and celebrate the diverse contributions of disabled people in every community.

Through the Moving Communities Fund, Kinetic New Zealand is proud to support organisations helping make this vision real across Aotearoa.

One of this year’s recipients is Circability Trust, an organisation that uses circus arts to strengthen wellbeing, build confidence and create a sense of belonging for people of all abilities.

Each year, Circability brings communities together through Celebrate Together, its annual nationwide event honouring the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. 

This year’s celebrations take place today, Tuesday 3 December, across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, Northland, and the Bay of Plenty, with Ōtautahi Christchurch to follow on Friday 5 December. People of all ages and abilities will come together to “join the circus” and experience a day of creativity, connection and fun.

“Celebrate Together is all about giving people of all abilities a place to belong,” says Marília Pereira, Operations Manager at Circability Trust.

“When someone steps into the circus, whether they are spinning a plate for the first time or mastering a new skill, you see confidence rise and community form right in front of you. 

“Kinetic’s support means we can keep delivering these moments across Aotearoa and ensure everyone has the chance to take part, feel welcome and express themselves in a safe and joyful space.”

The grant from Kinetic’s Moving Communities Fund will help Circability cover essential operating costs as the organisation works to deliver more social circus programmes from its regional hubs. This includes expanding outreach so more individuals, schools and community groups can take part.

Circability is powered by a committed team of tutors, creatives and administrators who focus on improving wellbeing and belonging for people who often face barriers. Their goal is simple: keep the doors open so anyone can join the circus, whatever their circumstances or abilities.

Kinetic’s support for the Trust reflects its commitment to making public transport, and the communities it serves, as accessible as possible. Across New Zealand and Australia, Kinetic is working to remove barriers and enable participation for people with disabilities.

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities has been observed annually since 1992, when it was established by the United Nations to promote understanding of disability issues, recognise the achievements of disabled people and encourage action that builds more inclusive societies.

Find out more about Circability Trust on their website: https://www.circability.org/