Recognizing International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Dec. 3 marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a global observance that shines a spotlight on the importance of accessibility, inclusion and respect for people of all abilities. At UCLA, this day is an opportunity to reflect on how our community can learn more about inclusivity efforts. Keep reading for more information about UCLA’s accessibility resources and ways Bruins can get involved in making UCLA a place where everyone can thrive.

The UCLA Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion’s (EDI) Supporting Our Disability Community Toolkit offers maps of accessible routes and building entrances on campus, resources about combating ableism, information about student community interest organizations and more.

The Center for Accessible Education (CAE) is also a resource for students to obtain and implement academic and housing accommodations, such as assistive technology tools like Otter Voice notes, Livescribe Smart Pen and more. The CAE also hosts drop-in sessions for students with questions about accommodations and resources offered by the center, as well as events throughout the year to inform about and support disability inclusion. To visit the center’s website, click the link below.

Students should also remember that if they encounter barriers to accessibility or feel their rights are not being respected, they have the option to formally file complaints with the university. For more information about this, click the UCLA EDI Office link below.

By learning about accessibility resources, supporting initiatives and speaking up when barriers exist, students can play a key role in shaping a more inclusive UCLA.