Ireland Goes Purple for International Day of People with Disabilities

Ireland is shining a light on disability on Tuesday 3 December to mark International Day for People with Disabilities (IDPwD). The Purple Lights campaign celebrates the lives of the 1 in 5 people in this country living with a disability by turning government and company buildings purple for the day.

The founder of the campaign Gary Kearney said the Purple Lights campaign is a celebration of inclusion.

“It’s about honouring the diversity of people living with disabilities across this country. As a person who acquired a disability in my 40s, I know how difficult it can be to adjust to that new life. But through that journey, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many other incredible people and it’s given me a passion for disability activism.

I see Purple Lights as a celebration of our lives. Too often we’re pitied or not seen. When we light up the country on 3 December every year, we’re marking our own space in the world and embracing our uniqueness. That’s why I’m excited to see the country bathed in purple for a day,” he said.

Landmark buildings will go purple for the day including the Rock of Cashel, National Concert Hall, Mansion House Dublin, Garda HQ, Dublin City Hall, Connolly Station, Dublin Bus HQ, Bus Eireann Cork, Liberty Hall Roof Whites Bridge Athlone, and many other bridges, buildings and companies across Ireland.

Notes to editors:

• The annual observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on 3 December was proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly resolution 47/3. The observance of the Day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilise support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.  
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