Overview:
Palau joins the global community today in marking the National Day of Persons with Disabilities, highlighting the importance of dignity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all. This year’s themes focus on empowering ability through creativity and culture, as the nation reflects on 15 years of progress and ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive society.
By: Summer Kennard
KOROR, Palau (Dec. 3, 2025) — “It means setting aside a day to think about people like me,” said Mial Baskasio, a board member of Omekesang, as Palau prepares to join the global observance of the National Day of Persons with Disabilities on Dec. 3. “It’s about recognizing each other for being strong every day.”
Her message reflects the call in Presidential Proclamation No. 25-412, in which President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. urges the nation to deepen awareness, understanding, and respect for persons with disabilities and the vital role they play in Palau’s social and cultural landscape.
This year’s observance highlights the international theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” and Palau’s national theme, “Empowering Ability through Creativity and Culture.” The proclamation notes that inclusion strengthens communities, aligns with the U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and supports Palau’s values of equity and “a kot a rechad er Belau.”
The proclamation also marks a milestone: 15 years since Palau began recognizing this day, honoring the pioneers, families, partners, and volunteers who helped build the movement. It cites census data showing that about 3.4% of Palau’s population experience significant difficulties, with nearly 12% reporting some functional challenges—numbers that underscore the continued need for accessibility, opportunity, and public awareness.
Throughout the week leading to Dec. 3, agencies and partner organizations will hold programs promoting dialogue, visibility, and community support. President Whipps called on all institutions and citizens to ensure the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities are respected and upheld.
For many families, the day carries deeply personal meaning. A 66-year-old man caring for his younger brother said his perspective changed completely once he became a caregiver. “Before caring for my brother, I didn’t think much about persons with disabilities. But now, it feels much closer. It means celebrating and recognizing persons with disabilities in our country and in our lives.”
For younger Palauans, greater visibility also matters. A 19-year-old participant said, “I actually just learned about it, and I’m glad we have a day for that.”
The national theme emphasizes celebrating creativity, culture, and the unique strengths persons with disabilities contribute to Palau—talents that advocates say strengthen communities and help drive innovation and inclusion.
President Whipps’ proclamation calls on all Palauans to take part in activities that honor “the achievements, resilience, and potential of persons with disabilities,” reaffirming the national commitment to building a society where everyone can participate fully.
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