Proud of Ourselves

Persons with disabilities in B&H are, as we all know, systemically discriminated. We also know that society is burdened with prejudice. There are too many issues and problems in B&H and the authorities neither “see” nor “hear” much of what’s important.

In a situation where the problems of the existence of persons with disabilities have been circumvented by the authorities, and to make the matter worse media were not interested in this particular topic, we begun our work with MyRight. With the challenge of empowering persons with disabilities ahead of us, we realised that we had to point out the contribution of persons with disabilities to the whole world and to educate the general public on the rights of persons with disabilities and the obligations of the society and the state.

The result of cooperation with the coalitions of persons with disabilities from all over B&H, MyRight, Sida, ADA and Light for the world is really something we are really proud of – the Proud Of Ourseves campaign.

The Proud Of Ourseves Campaign was supported by the famous scientist, late prof. Stephen Hawking, foundations of writer Helen Keller and painter Fride Kahlo, and numerous citizens and public figures across B&H. Persons with disabilities from Bosnia and Herzegovina shared their inspirational stories and personal messages with us. With pride and gratitude we point out the personal message of prof. Stephen Hawking sent to all disabled persons in Bosnia and Herzegovina: “I have a motor neurone disease that has paralyzed me. If I can succeed, others can as well.”

Proud Of Ourselves have, over time, grown into a movement that brings together those who believe that inclusion is all the only way for a brighter future. They are gathered under a symbol that shows the two hands set up to create the shape of a bird. In this way, you can also express your support for the campaign and further promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities.