Press Release December 3rd: International Day of Persons with Disabilities – Let’s Hear the Voices of Children with Disabilities Left Behind by Incarcerated Parents
Today, December 3rd, marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This year, the Hand in Hand Disability Platform is highlighting a pressing issue: children with disabilities whose parents are incarcerated. We want to emphasize once again that disability is not just an individual concern but a shared responsibility of society. On this special day, we take it as our mission to amplify the voices of children with disabilities who are among the most vulnerable members of our community — those whose parents are behind bars.
Across Turkey, hundreds of children with disabilities face not only physical or cognitive challenges but also profound emotional trauma stemming from the absence of parental love, care, and support. During the most critical periods of their lives, these children are deprived of the warmth of family, putting their development and mental health at significant risk.
When their parents are incarcerated, these children are often placed with relatives or under state care. However, in many cases, the specific needs of these children are inadequately addressed, and the emotional void they experience remains unfilled. This not only impacts the children themselves but also creates serious consequences for their families and society as a whole.
What Can We Do?
Be Their Voice
We can start by sharing their stories and raising awareness. On December 3rd, you can support the “Purple Room” campaign on Twitter/X by using the designated hashtag and spreading the message.Put Children’s Well-Being First
The living conditions of children with disabilities whose parents are incarcerated must be carefully evaluated, and tailored care and support services must be provided to meet their unique needs.Rethink Prison Policies: The justice system should consider alternative sentencing options for parents of children with disabilities to help maintain family bonds and minimize the impact on these children.
Strengthen Community Support: Public awareness must be raised, and social support mechanisms for these children must be strengthened. Civil society organizations, local governments, and state agencies should collaborate to establish a comprehensive support network.
These Children Are Our Future
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is not only about raising awareness but also about taking action. It is important to remember that every child has the right to love, security, and development. Easing the challenges faced by children with disabilities and giving them hope for a brighter future is a responsibility we all share.
We call on society to show greater sensitivity to this issue and urge decision-makers to take steps that will improve the lives of these children. Let us use this December 3rd as an opportunity to take a meaningful step toward healing their wounds.
Hava Çiftçiler Hand in Hand Disability Platform Follow us on social media:
https://youtube.com/@handinhand2033
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