Chaica Al Qasimi, a leading advocate for People of Determination (PoD) in the UAE, urges society to redefine inclusion, focusing on genuine, rights-based approaches rather than symbolic gestures.
In an exclusive chat with Khaleej Times, Chaica, a martial artist and global advocate for disability rights, highlighted the significant gaps in education, employment, and healthcare. She shared her vision for true inclusion in the UAE.
“Society talks about inclusion with free activities, but not the legal aspects,” Chaica noted, pointing out the disparity between public perception and the realities faced by PoD.
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Her remarks come as the UAE builds on milestones like the 2006 Federal Law No. 29 and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
Chaica stressed that the fight for true inclusion continues. Some schools still deny entry to children with disabilities, specialized education is costly, and inclusive programs are limited.
Many families struggle silently. “Families hide their children at home, without basic necessities,” she disclosed, highlighting unseen suffering.
She also identified discriminatory hiring, high unemployment, and bullying as significant challenges.
Chaica advocates for empowering PoD to voice their experiences. “Encourage them to speak up without silencing them,” she urged, criticizing efforts to calm or redirect them when they express themselves.
She promotes social media and other platforms to amplify these voices, demonstrating this in her journey.
A Champion for Change
Diagnosed with Down syndrome, Chaica has shattered stereotypes to become a global PoD ambassador. A Special Olympics athlete with a karate black belt, she made headlines in 2019 by carrying the torch for the Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi. She has also represented the MENA region at the United Nations, emphasizing the importance of visibility for PoD.
Her self-advocacy work is vast, involving training PoD, empowering disabled women, and running an ‘Advocacy in the Desert’ program. Her future vision is clear: “to assume responsibilities and take legal actions to accept disabilities in the UAE.”
A Call to Action
Chaica Al Qasimi outlined a plan for government and private sectors to promote self-advocacy.
“Open schools to disabilities with affordable plans,” she urged. “Universities should welcome disabilities… Workplaces must hire and stop discrimination.”
She also emphasized the use of simple language in communications and called for stronger anti-bullying measures in schools.
Families play a crucial role, she noted. “Families should let their children explore the UAE. Avoid overprotection. Encourage independence at home and beyond.”
As the UAE progresses towards inclusivity, Chaica Al Qasimi’s powerful voice serves as a guide and a call to action, reminding us that true inclusion is about rights, respect, and believing in everyone’s potential.
