The First Step Toward Equality Beyond Anti-Discrimination
[Asia Economy Reporter Jongil Park] Park Sunbok, a member of the Gwangjin District Council (Chairperson Park Samrye), held a meeting on the 23rd at the Gwangjin District Council briefing room under the theme of "Communication for the Protection of the Human Rights of Persons with Disabilities."
The meeting, organized to hear the voices of stakeholders ahead of the enactment of the "Ordinance on the Prohibition of Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities and the Protection of Human Rights" and the "Ordinance on Supporting the Activation of Sports for Persons with Disabilities," was attended by representatives from four organizations: Gwangjin Center for Independent Living of Persons with Disabilities (Director Kim Juhyun), Seoul Parents' Solidarity for Persons with Disabilities Gwangjin Branch (President Hong Suhee), East Seoul Center for Independent Living of Persons with Disabilities (Director Oh Byungcheol), and Euddeum Center for Independent Living of Persons with Disabilities (Director Jeong Taegun), along with Ansunjong, Chairperson of the Gwangjin Forum Operations Committee, Hong Jinki, CEO of Digital Gwangjin, and officials from relevant departments of the district office.
Starting the meeting, Councilor Park Sunbok said, "April 13 marked the 13th anniversary of the enforcement of the Act on the Prohibition of Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities, but it is regrettable that prejudice and discrimination still exist." She added, "The 'full participation and equality of persons with disabilities,' proclaimed at the 1981 UN General Assembly, remains a task assigned to us."
She continued, "We are preparing to propose legislation to prohibit discrimination against persons with disabilities and protect their human rights," and requested, "We have arranged this opportunity to hear opinions for a more substantial ordinance enactment, so please share what is necessary for the human rights of persons with disabilities."
The meeting proceeded with a detailed review of the ordinance draft, during which attendees actively expressed parts that needed revision and content that should be reflected.
The stakeholders requested that the system be based on accurate surveys of the actual conditions, including composition ratios, needs, and grades, to prepare a relevant and effective ordinance, and urged active efforts to improve the poor services for persons with disabilities.
They also listed the limited facilities available for persons with disabilities and asked that provisions related to convenience enhancement be included in the ordinance.
Concluding the meeting, Councilor Park Sunbok said, "The first step may not be perfect, but I hope this time will be a starting point that goes beyond prohibiting discrimination against persons with disabilities to guaranteeing equal rights," and added, "Through continuous sharing of opinions, we will create a Gwangjin where full participation and equality are realized."
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