The G7 Summit: Championing Inclusion and Disability in Assisi
The picturesque town of Assisi, renowned as the birthplace of St. Francis, has taken on a new role as a hub for promoting inclusion and celebrating the abilities of people with disabilities. The G7 summit on inclusion and disability, held under the Italian presidency, has brought together political leaders and individuals with disabilities from seven countries, along with representatives from the European Union and four other nations.
The summit, hosted at the historic Castle of Solfagnano, aims to facilitate discussions on best practices and address the challenges that still exist in promoting inclusivity. One of the key outcomes of the summit is the signing of the Solfagnano Charter, which will be presented to Pope Francis on the final day of the event.
Witnessing Dignity and Resilience
The summit kicked off with a powerful display of inclusivity, as three inclusive bands performed national anthems, showcasing the talents of 80 musicians, including 50 individuals with disabilities. Throughout the event, young people shared their inspiring stories, highlighting their determination and courage in pursuing education, employment, and social acceptance.
One particularly moving story is that of Paolo Puddu, a literature graduate and the director of the ABC Cerebral Palsy Children’s Association, who communicates through a transparent tablet with engraved letters.
‘Celebrating Our Uniqueness’
The summit also featured individuals like Maria Teresa Rocchi, who dreams of dancing on television despite having Down syndrome, and Benedetta De Luca, a lawyer who emphasizes the importance of recognizing the talents and capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Guido Marangoni, a writer, stresses the poetic nature of diversity, highlighting the inherent beauty in individual differences.
Enrico delle Serre, who has autism spectrum disorder, underscores the importance of providing equal opportunities for all individuals to express their potential. He emphasizes the need for society to listen to the voices of people with disabilities and work together to create a more inclusive world.
Putting People First: A Vision for Change
Italy’s Minister for Disability, Alessandra Locatelli, sees the summit as a transformative opportunity to shift societal perspectives on disability. She advocates for prioritizing the individual and focusing on their talents, values, and skills rather than limitations.
Minister Locatelli’s proposal for the G7, supported by Canada and England, aims to create a comprehensive healthcare pathway for individuals with disabilities, ensuring holistic care and support. She also calls for legislation to protect and support caregivers, acknowledging their crucial role in the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Embracing Change: A Collective Effort
Sister Veronica Donatello, a driving force behind the summit and head of the Pastoral Service for Persons with Disabilities of the Italian Bishops’ Conference, emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in attitudes towards disability. She highlights the importance of integrating disability awareness into both civil and ecclesial practices, making inclusivity a common and everyday reality.
As the summit unfolds in Assisi, with various projects and initiatives promoting inclusivity and showcasing the talents of individuals with disabilities, the message is clear: true progress comes from embracing diversity and working together to create a more inclusive and equitable world.
