Since 2014, the European Independent Living Day is celebrated each year on 5th May, under the slogan “Proud, Strong and Visible”. It is an opportunity for disabled people and our allies to demand the right to independent living, to raise awareness about the barriers we face and to stand in solidarity with people in institutions and those whose voices are not being heard.
Every year, our members and friends all over Europe (and beyond) celebrate the European Independent Living Day in various and creative ways. From public protests and demonstrations (sometimes simultaneously in different cities), to webinars, conferences and meetings with policymakers or even art exhibitions, various contests and social media campaigns. The sky is the limit really!
This year’s activities
For this year, with one month left, at ENIL we are preparing a very rich programme of activities, giving the opportunity for everyone to engage in various ways, depending on what each person likes and how much time they have. More specifically:
- First, similar to last year, we will have an online info-session about the day, to explain what we will do, share possible ways for everyone to engage, and listen to your ideas and questions. It will be held on Wednesday 16th April at 11:00 CET. You can join by clicking here (no registration is needed).
- For those in Brussels, firstly we are joining a protest against the abolishment of the personal assistance budget by the Brussels region, and afterwards we will have an Independent Living reception, with a film screening, followed by discussion with disability activists and various officials. You can find more information about both here.
- From 1st May, and every day until 5th May, we will have a daily social media campaign with ways for our members and allies to engage and share their views, activities and many more, so stay tuned!
- On 5th May, we will publish a press release, host an online Youth Café (more information about it soon), release a podcast episode with a very interesting discussion, and of course share all the amazing things you will do!
Having said all the above, we encourage you to be active, organise activities and make some noise! To be more visible and connect with each other, don’t hesitate to use the hashtags #ILDay2025, #IndependentLivingVoices, #VoicesThatMustBeHeard.
In these difficult and tumultuous times, on the European Independent Living Day – 5th May we call you all to be louder and prouder than ever! Together!
For any questions you may have, please contact kamil.goungor@enil.eu, and don’t hesitate to share your plans and activities for the day with michael.goossens@enil.eu
