Race to Inclusion

In December 2011 in Manila, the Philippines, persons with disability participated in an advocacy race entitled "Access 2020: Race to Success" in celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

The Advocacy Run

Visually impaired participants are guided by their non-disabled teammates on a foot race along the highways of Metro Manila. Photo: CBM-SEAPRO

On 3rd December 2011, CBM Regional Office in South East Asia & Pacific participated in the recently concluded Access 2020: Race to Success, and advocacy run spearheaded by long-time CBM partner Tahanang Walang Hagdanan, Inc (TWHI).

The race coincided with the celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and ran for two more days before its conclusion.

The amazing teams

Similar to the top rating reality TV show 'Amazing Race' seven competing teams raced around Metro Manila and the nearby provinces of Cavite and Rizal following a route that brought them to various pit stops where they accomplished a task or challenge.

But unlike its prototype, Access 2020 teams were composed of three persons without disabilities and three persons with disabilities. It was organised to realise the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life, as well as to test the compliance on the Philippine Accessibility Law. The CBM Team was composed of six CBM staff members and three other team members who joined the team when others could not compete. Other teams were sponsored by Adidas, Canon, Physicians for Peace, Mang Inasal, and Eco Savers. The CBM Team was awarded the award for 'Best Teamwork'.

The race concluded on December 5, 2011 in a closing ceremony attended by government agencies, civil society groups, volunteers, and other Access 2020 supporters.

The race closed with everyone signing their commitment of alliance with TWHI and their commitment to work towards the promotion and realisation of the rights of persons with disabilities.

Photo: CBM-SEAPRO