Shanghai: Shanghai Disney Resort convened its fourth annual accessibility forum on Tuesday, on the eve of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
The event, which drew more than 200 participants from various sectors, is intended as a platform for substantive dialogue on disability inclusion and accessibility implementation.
“At Shanghai Disney Resort, we believe dreams should be within everyone’s reach,” said Murray King, vice-president of public affairs and communications at the resort.
“This annual forum reaffirmed our commitment to advancing accessibility, not only by inspiring greater awareness and understanding, but through concrete action that places accessibility at the heart of our resort’s continuous growth and development.”
“From public spaces to sports facilities, we’re witnessing the progressive integration of barrier-free features across China,” said Lyu Shiming, member of the standing committee of the 14th National People’s Congress and president of the China Association of Volunteers for Persons with Disabilities.
Lyu said Shanghai Disney Resort’s meticulous attention to accessibility details, from curb designs to innovative solutions for common infrastructure challenges, was an example to follow.
Xu Jingkun, a former member of China’s Paralympic sailing team, spoke about his participation in the grueling 26,000-nautical-mile Vendee Globe race during the event.
“At first, the possibility of sailing across the ocean with one hand seemed questionable,” Xu said.
“However, my success opened new pathways for athletes with disabilities.”
Xu emphasized China’s unique position in terms of accessibility development, noting the significant amount of people in the country who are living with disabilities.
“Enhanced infrastructure is crucial for genuine social integration,” he added, advocating for stricter accessibility standards in construction projects and the inclusion of mobility-impaired individuals in facility inspections.
The forum featured industry presentations, panel discussions and a Chinese sign language learning session, providing a platform for collaboration on accessibility initiatives.
Complementing the forum, the Shanghai resort launched several programs to coincide with Wednesday’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities, including community outreach efforts and an accessible merchandise collection. –The Daily Mail-China Daily news exchange item
