Human rights in the spotlight at Disability Rights Forum

The Te Pou disability workforce development team was proud to host a one-day forum on 6 December for people interested in understanding and promoting disabled people’s rights. 

A variety of speakers presented with a focus on disabled people’s human rights, including Disability Rights Commissioner Paula Tesoriero (pictured, top), who spoke about her role and the work of the commission.

Other speakers included Chris Parson and Tania Thomas talking about Mahi Tahi, Dr Esther Woodbury on the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse and Care and Marion Blake on Inclusion of Mental Health as a Disability.  

Breakout sessions in the afternoon covered a wide range of topics:

• Te Tau Tītoki: A framework for supporting people on the autism spectrum: Gabby Hogg and John Vogenthaler
• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Professor Anita Gibbs
• Positive Behavioural Support: Bronwyn Moth
• I-Lead: Nizarath Ali and Josh Fuimaono
• Disabled People’s Organisations Coalition: Dr Jonathan Godfrey
• Let’s get real: Disability: Sue Sherrard

A range of social enterprise/disability sector exhibitors showcased their mahi including Xabilities, Māpura Studios, Our Harvest (Recreate NZ) and Downlights Fundraising Candles. 

“As we work towards the transformation of the disability system, it’s crucial for the sector to take a human rights informed approach. This event was a great opportunity to come together, learn and share perspectives on disabled people’s human rights,” said Te Pou project lead Sue Sherrard.