MSDI and Wider Cayman Islands Government Mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities with Meaningful National Initiatives

The Ministry of Social Development & Innovation joined the wider Government and community to commemorate International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) with an island wide Dress for a Cause - Wear Yellow initiative, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening disability inclusion across the public service and the wider community. A vibrant group of 150 Civil Servants and Sunrise Adult Training Centre clients gathered in front of the Government Administration Building (GAB) for the annual photo, a record-breaking turnout, with participants proudly wearing yellow in recognition of disability inclusion. This tradition, which has been observed for more than a decade, continues to grow in participation and visibility, symbolising a shared determination to remove barriers for persons with disabilities. The public is encouraged to join the observance every 3 December.

The 2025 global IDPD theme: “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress” is aimed at full and effective participation in society for persons with disabilities in all aspects of life.

There are initiatives across Government, not just to recognise this day, but to make meaningful change to benefit persons with disabilities in the Cayman Islands into the future.

Reviewing Legislation: Amendments to the Disabilities (Solomon Webster) Act, 2016

Cabinet has granted approval for amendments to be drafted for the Disabilities (Solomon Webster) Act, 2016. The updates aim to modernise the legislation to provide a comprehensive framework for persons to protect and support persons with disabilities to access their rights. This legislative step is part of a wider national effort to strengthen participation and remove barriers. MSDI is working closely with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities to modernise the framework. The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), a Council within the MSDI Portfolio, continues to lead national advocacy, public education, and key initiatives. The Council works across ministries and with private-sector partners to advance accessibility, support legislation, and promote inclusive development.

Becoming Sunflower-Certified

MSDI is proud to be the first Ministry to complete the Sunflower Training Programme - a globally recognised initiative that helps organisations support people with hidden disabilities with greater awareness and sensitivity. Through Sunrise Adult Training Centre’s leadership, the training process has been made accessible for public and private organisations to take part, noting that SATC is available to help facilitate staff training and provide Sunflower lanyards free of charge.

Government-Wide Policy Workshop: Mainstreaming Disability Across Public Policy

In honour of IDPD, the Cabinet Office hosted a workshop for policy professionals titled “Mainstreaming Accessibility in Policy Work”, which was facilitated by a Senior Policy Advisor within the MSDI. The session, which was attended by policy officers and other civil servants, guided participants through practical strategies for integrating disability perspectives into policy development and public service delivery. Emphasis was placed on ensuring that government policies work effectively for all persons, regardless of disability by design, not by exception.

QUOTES

Mr. Franz Manderson, Acting Governor

“This year’s record turnout reflects the dedication of our civil servants and partners to building a more welcoming and inclusive public service. International Day of Persons with Disabilities offers us an important moment for reflection and collective leadership, and I am proud of the role the civil service continues to play in advancing disability inclusion across our Islands.”

Hon. Isaac Rankine, Minister for Social Development & Innovation

“Our government’s vibrant show of yellow reflects our commitment to build a society where everyone can participate fully. Inclusion must be intentional, which is why we are strengthening legislation, improving service delivery, and ensuring accessibility considerations are built into how we design public services. I’m proud of the unity shown, and I encourage our community to keep disability inclusion at the forefront.”

Mrs. Nellie Pouchie Chief Officer, Ministry of Social Development & Innovation

“We are committed to meaningful, sustained progress — through modernised legislation, meaningful removal of barriers, and practical collaboration. Advancing amendments to the legislative framework is an important step toward ensuring our laws meet the real needs of persons with disabilities.”

Dr. Annette Stephenson Chair, National Council for Persons with Disabilities

“Wearing yellow is a powerful show of unity, but true inclusion requires more than awareness, it demands sustained, collective action. As Chair of the NCPD, my focus is ensuring that disability inclusion becomes standard practice across legislation, policy, and everyday life. I encourage all organisations to partner with us, engage in Sunflower training, and take practical steps to remove barriers. Inclusion must be built, not assumed.”

Call to Action

Community members, schools, businesses, community groups, & civic organisations are encouraged to:

• Participate in the Sunflower Training Programme
• Engage with the work of the NCPD and SATC
• Promote accessibility and inclusion in everyday life

MSDI remains committed to ensuring that disability inclusion is fully integrated into Cayman’s social development efforts, legislative agenda, & government service delivery, strengthening outcomes for all.