Having the ability to dance to “the beat of your own drum” is something many people aspire to, but most lack the courage to actually do it.
The upcoming All Abilities Dance Party in Wagga Wagga on 7 December is a chance for everyone to cut loose and strut their stuff in a celebration of the International Day of People with Disability.
Things are bound to get wild with the 2024 theme being ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ and there will be prizes for the best dressed along with a photo booth, food and drinks and – most importantly – a DJ and a dancefloor.
Ben Foley from Regional Disability Advocacy Service (RDAS) said the event had become a highlight for many on the annual calendar.
“Our all-abilities dance party provides a terrific opportunity to showcase what an amazing, inclusive regional community we have here in the Riverina,” he said.
“Diversity within the Wagga Wagga community is recognised as one of the community’s greatest strengths.
“Together, we commit to supporting the growth of a community that builds on the strengths of all people.”
As well as being a chance to party, the annual event aims to raise awareness and promote action around the rights of people with disability and their full inclusion in society.
“Regardless of disability type, most people with disability are supported by a network of family members, friends and carers,” Mr Foley said.
“This event aims to recognise the contributions and achievements of people with disability and those that support them.”
According to Australian Bureau of Statistics data, 21.4 per cent of Australians live with a disability.
“If the same estimates are true for Wagga Wagga, there are almost 15,000 local residents with disability,” he said.
“While many have identifiable disabilities, there are many more that have a hidden disability.”
The message for this year’s International Day of People with Disability is “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future”.
According to the UN, the aim is to highlight the need for persons with disabilities to take a leading role in advocacy and bringing about change from the global to the local levels.
The ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ party will be held on 7 December at the Wagga RSL Club, which is a venue that has invested heavily in accessibility amenities such as accessible parking, wheelchair and scooter entry, lifts and accessible restrooms.
Make sure you get your tickets soon for this special all-ages event.