Da nang: Promoting an inclusive society for the progress of the entire community

Cultural performance celebrating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3 December), presented by the Women with Disabilities Club

The event drew nearly 120 participants, including leaders and representatives from various agencies and organizations: Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Hoa – Deputy Head of Propaganda and Social Affairs, Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee of Da Nang City; Ms. Doan Thi Hoai Nhi – Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Health; Ms. Nguyen Thi Lan Anh – Vice President of the Vietnam Federation on Disability (VFD), Director of ACDC; Mr. Truong Cong Nghiem – Vice President of VFD, Chairman of the Da Nang Disabled People’s Organization; Mr. Hua Quoc Dung – Chairman of the former Quang Nam Disabled People’s Organization together with representatives of the Social Work Center; the Blind Association; the Association for Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin; the Women’s Union; the Youth Union; local disabled people’s associations and clubs; and media agencies in Da Nang City.

Opening remarks delivered by Mr. Truong Cong Nghiem – Vice President of the Vietnam Federation on Disability (VFD) and President of the Da Nang Disabled Persons’ Association

Opening the program, Mr. Truong Cong Nghiem, Vice President of VFD and Chairman of the Da Nang Disabled People’s Organization, emphasized: “This year’s theme – ‘Promoting an Inclusive Society for the Progress of the Entire Community’ – reminds us that social development is the development of every individual. Each citizen, with or without disabilities, deserves opportunities to live, contribute, and fully develop.”

Welcome remarks delivered by Ms. Doan Thi Hoai Nhi – Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Health

In her welcome remarks, Ms. Doan Thi Hoai Nhi, Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Health, acknowledged the achievements of the Inclusion Project Phase 1 and the effective cooperation with the Da Nang Disabled People’s Organization. She emphasized that this occasion is a moment to honor and spread the message of resilience and aspiration of people with disabilities. She also affirmed that the health sector and related agencies will continue to accompany and support persons with disabilities in overcoming barriers and confidently integrating into society.

Remarks by Ms. Nguyen Thi Lan Anh – Director of ACDC, sharing ACDC’s commitment to promoting the full participation of persons with disabilities in social and community life

Representing ACDC, Ms. Nguyen Thi Lan Anh, Director, shared: “Persons with disabilities are not passive recipients of support—they are citizens with rights, voices, abilities, and meaningful contributions to the sustainable development of every nation.” She reaffirmed ACDC’s commitment to promoting equality and creating opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate fully in social life, especially as Vietnam has ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Message delivered by Mr. Hua Quoc Dung – Former President of the Quang Nam Disabled Persons’ Association

In his message marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3), Mr. Hua Quoc Dung, Chairman of the former Quang Nam Disabled People’s Organization, emphasized: “Persons with disabilities always carry within themselves the desire to live independently, to work, and to contribute like anyone else. What we need is not pity—but opportunity.”

Panel discussion featuring inspirational stories from outstanding persons with disabilities

One of the program’s highlights was the interactive session “Adapting to Integrate,” featuring inspiring stories from persons with disabilities who have achieved success in art, technology, sports, and creative work. Three guest speakers represented three remarkable journeys: “Music – The Flame of Faith,” “Technology Opens the Door to Inclusion,” and “Breaking Limits with Willpower.” Although each story carried different messages, they all shared a spirit of adaptation, inclusion, and breakthrough. Their sharing not only created emotional and memorable moments but also encouraged persons with disabilities to live independently and confidently.

Mr. Nguyen Huu Khoa from the Thang Binh Disabled People’s Organization —one of the inspirational figures—shared that the most important factor in overcoming barriers is having a clear life goal. He emphasized: “We must choose work that suits our abilities and something we are passionate about. Once we choose, we must stay committed and try our best to support ourselves and contribute to the community.”

Participants raised questions regarding benefits, rights, and available support channels for persons with disabilities

Within the program, representatives from the Department of Social Protection and Children’s Affairs, as well as the Da Nang Department of Health, held a direct dialogue with participants to answer questions about access to services, social assistance, vocational training, employment, and other related topics. This helped attendees gain a clearer understanding of their rights and the support channels available to them.

On the sidelines, an exhibition featuring products made by persons with disabilities—such as handicrafts, paintings, textiles, and souvenirs—attracted attention from delegates and guests. The exhibition not only showcased their work but also demonstrated the creativity and socio-economic contributions that persons with disabilities can make when given opportunities and access to an enabling environment.

Team members with disabilities expressed joyful and radiant emotions after winning the team-building activity

These activities are part of the “Support to Improve the Quality of Life of Persons with Disabilities in Provinces Heavily Sprayed with Agent Orange” project in Quang Tri, Hue, and Da Nang (Inclusion Project Phase 1). The project is led by the National Action Center for Toxic Chemicals and Environmental Treatment (NACCET), with ACDC as one of the implementing partners under the management of the Center for Creative Initiatives in Health and Population (CCIHP). To date, the project has supported over 1,000 persons with disabilities in accessing medical services, rehabilitation, healthcare, social inclusion support, and improved living conditions. Its models and services have also strengthened the voice of disabled people’s organizations in policy advocacy, changed community attitudes, and reduced barriers for persons with disabilities at the local level.

Group photo of all delegates, leaders, and organizing units to commemorate the event

The program concluded in a warm and uplifting atmosphere with musical performances, interactive games, and flower presentations. The event not only contributed to shifting community attitudes and reducing barriers for persons with disabilities but also reaffirmed the commitment of agencies, organizations, and the community to building an inclusive society—where persons with disabilities have opportunities to grow, participate, and ensure that no one is left behind.

Translator: Hong Phuc