From disability to disability

Every December 3rd, the International and European Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated. True to its appointment, the Senate has reiterated its commitment to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, as they are one of the segments of the population most affected by COVID-19. This has been done through an institutional declaration urging the promotion of the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all areas, but emphasizing that public authorities are responsible for deploying the necessary resources to ensure a better and fairer reconstruction after the pandemic without leaving anyone behind, particularly this fragile and vulnerable group.

Sometimes, it is convenient to move away a little from the media noise produced by the daily exercise of politics, to raise our heads and remember what the true mission of every elected representative is, and that is none other than public service. This is how we progressives understand it when a day like this is commemorated, in which society focuses on promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities, as well as raising awareness about their situation in all aspects of life. Let us not forget that they are the largest minority in the world, and they often have more difficulties than other groups in accessing education or the labor market.

In its institutional declaration, the Senate recognizes the work of disability sector organizations, which, since the beginning of the pandemic, have been on alert, launching actions to defend the rights of these people and their families, ensuring resources and services to protect their health, employment and education. A report published by the Secretary of State for Social Rights has reported more than 4,300,000 people who have been assessed for some disability in our country, of which almost half are between 35 and 64 years old. There is still much to be done in favor of these people.

The Senate has also reaffirmed its commitment to principles such as equality, equity and non-discrimination and to the rights of these people and their families, something that is not exclusive to one or another political color, fortunately. However, I believe that the PSOE has more than demonstrated an effective responsibility towards people with disabilities to guarantee their full access to the benefits of the Welfare State. However, in order to continue advancing, we have to provide answers in the budgets and through a permanent dialogue with the organizations of the Third Sector, as well as with the platforms for the defense of the rights of these people.

Let's not lose sight of the fact that the great pending issue remains the inclusion of people with disabilities in the world of work. Nor that the dignified aging of these people demands residential spaces in accordance with their needs, as closely linked as possible to their families and their known environments, with adequately trained professionals, who provide them with security, tranquility and confidence. And, what is more important, let us keep in mind the respect for the will and preferences of these people, since, as a general rule, they are in charge of making their own decisions.

Fco. Manuel Fajardo Palarea, senator of the PSOE for Lanzarote and La Graciosa.