Day of Opportunities

The last Saturday in May is a special day in the City of Karlstad. The yearly event "Karlstads Stadslopp" a running race attracts thousands of people running in the streets or just visiting the town. On the very same day the municipality of Karlstad and the local Disability Federation organise an event to promote the European Year of People with Disabilities.

An outdoor arena will be built in the centre of Karlstad. On the arena there will be different kinds of cultural and sport activities performed by people with or without disabilities. Local organisations of different disabilities and organisations engaged in issues concerning human rights prepare an exhibition which shall be located close to the arena. The aim of the event is to change the image of people with disabilities and to show that there are no limits for what people can do. The event is one way to increase awareness of the needs of people with disabilities and the potential that they are to society.

The municipality of Karlstad has had a political plan for disability issues for a year now. The plan contains common goals and measures related to information, accessibility, education, leisure and employment. The plan was worked out in close partnership with local organisations of different disabilities. The vision foresees full participation and equal rights for all citizens.