Embrace Abilities, Disable Discrimination

Ableism represents a systemic bias and discrimination against individuals with disabilities, stemming from the misconception that standard abilities are superior. This widespread prejudice affects those who identify themselves as disabled, as well as those perceived as disabled by others. Disability is a natural aspect of human life, shaped by various health conditions like dementia, blindness, and spinal cord injuries, and also by environmental and personal factors. At present, significant disabilities impact an estimated 1.3 billion people around the world, constituting 16% of the global population.

People with disabilities form a diverse group, and their experiences in life and health needs are influenced by factors such as gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, race, ethnicity, and economic status.

We Must Act Now!

Prompts

1. “I choose not to place ‘DIS’ in my ability.” ― Robert M. Hensel. How do you understand this quote?”

2. Do you think that disability makes a person “exceptional?” Why or Why not?

3. People often have the assumption that disabled people need to be ‘fixed’ in one form or the other. What is your opinion of this?

4. Share a personal story or experience with ableism and how it affected you or someone you know.

All candidates must answer one of these questions via writing, speech, or artwork.

Entry Requirements

Entry is open to students from any country and any school. Candidates must be 20 years old, or younger, on the date of the submission deadline.

Key Dates​​

EST 11:59 PM on 1st April 2024: Submission deadline

1st May: Short-listed candidates notified

Winners will be announced on 20th May 2024.

Awards
Each major category will award one Grand Prize, First Prize, Second Prize, Third Prize, and Honorable Mention(Shortlisted). The Grand Prize winner will receive a cash prize of $150 or 1000 RMB.

Prompts 

1. Where does ableism originate from?

2. What barriers have you seen in your community that prevent the inclusion of people with disabilities?

All candidates must answer one of these questions via writing.

Entry Requirements

Entry is open to students from any country and any school. Candidates must be 15 years old, or younger, on the date of the submission deadline.

Key Dates​​

EST 11:59 PM on 1st April 2024: Submission deadline

1st May: Short-listed candidates notified

Winners will be announced in 20th May 2024.

Awards
This competition will award one Grand Prize, First Prize, Second Prize, Third Prize, and Honorable Mention(Shortlisted). The Grand Prize winner will receive a cash prize of $150 or 1000 RMB.