Thank you President and dear delegates,
We are living in a historical moment that is not easy from a social, civil, economic and political point of view, all over the world, in each of our countries.
However,
I AM CONVINCED THAT
this is also the right time to give our best, to testify with our work, alongside persons and families,
that we cannot leave anyone behind!
For this reason
Italy has just approved a major disability reform
Which introduces the “Life Project”.
The “Life Project” starts from the wishes of the person with disabilities, as required by the CRPD, and is a personalized and shared tool
Which overcomes the fragmentation between health, welfare and social interventions and also simplifies the procedures for providing services.
To accompany this change in approach
we have also eliminated the word “handicapped”
from all Italian laws,
replacing it with
Person,
Person with disabilities,
respecting the dignity of all.
I AM CONVINCED THAT
we need a new look on the part of institutions,
Of the private world but also from individual citizens,
to overcome discrimination and mere welfare,
to value persons,
to grasp the talents and skills of everyone,
to evaluate the potential and not the limits!
This will be the underlying theme of the first G7 in history,
which will meet at a political level in Italy
to talk about inclusion and disability.
Starting from October 14th, in Assisi,
we will launch a message of PEACE,
sharing, concreteness and participation,
AND the square will be open to EVERYONE.
I AM CONVINCED THAT
only together,
all of us,
with our actions and our proposals,
with the world of the third sector,
of associations,
will WE be able
to be strong and even stronger to FORCE change.
I AM CONVINCED THAT
Our countries must have one voice!
⁃ For universal accessibility,
⁃ for everyone’s right to full participation in the civil, social and political life of our countries
⁃ and for the promotion of a personalized and participatory Life Project for every person with disabilities.
AND THIS IS ALL I AM CONVINCED OF
MAY MY conviction BE yours
and MAY
OUR BELIEF
BE
OUR
strength!!
Thank you and good work!
