December 12, 2023
HONG KONG – Local para-athletes received a heartwarming tribute at the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) as the themed park threw a celebration for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on Saturday, amplifying the voices of forging inclusion in the city.
More than 1,000 people attended the event, with guests including government officials and NGOs representatives sharing their insights and paying tribute to the outstanding achievements of the Hong Kong, China delegations for the Hangzhou Asian Games and Asian Para Games. Members of the delegations were also invited to experience the park’s newly-opened World of Frozen area.
Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han called on the local community to keep working together to promote the message of inclusion
“At HKDL, it has become a much-loved tradition to celebrate IDPD, which is a shining example of our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility,” said Michael Moriarty, managing director of the HKDL.
“This year, we also celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Hong Kong, China Asian Games and Asian Para Games athletes, who have proved that no dream is too big,” Moriarty added.
Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han called on the local community to keep working together to promote the message of inclusion. He said the government would continue to strengthen rehabilitation services and policies, and pledged to implement more subsidies to support people with disabilities.
“Over 30 years of collective efforts, the public’s awareness on people with disabilities and their rights has significantly enhanced,” said Benny Cheung Wai-leung, chairperson of the Hong Kong Joint Council for People with Disabilities and the board director of China Hong Kong Paralympic Committee.
Cheung expressed his gratitude to the para-athletes. “Your courage and perseverance inspire everyone, and create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to pursue their dreams.”
To further support the community, HKDL said it is donating over 5,000 park tickets to people with disabilities. The park is also incorporating sign language elements and theatrical interpretation in its entertainment offerings, it added.