Empowering Voices: Deaf Advocates Champion Inclusivity at Legislative Summit

 

Empowering Voices: Deaf Advocates Champion Inclusivity at Legislative Summit*

Raji Ade Oba 

24 April 2024

Oyedeji Olusegun Abayomi, Coordinator of Advocacy for Persons With Disabilities ADII & DPM, and his Vice Chairman DPM, Mr. Kareem Taofeek Abidemi, attended the Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin Students’ Legislative Summit, themed “Roles of Quality Legislation in Nation Building," in Ibadan.

With Governor Seyi Makinde in attendance and other dignitaries, it provided an excellent platform for the Hearing Impaired community, especially youth, to encourage them to seize available opportunities. As an advocate for inclusivity, I'm proud to have been a part of such an empowering event.

In a compelling display of inclusivity and empowerment, Oyedeji Olusegun Abayomi, Coordinator Advocacy for Persons With Disabilities & DPM, and his Vice Chairman DPM, Kareem Taofeek Abidemi, were among the distinguished attendees at the recent Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin Students’ Legislative Summit. This significant gathering, themed “Roles of Quality Legislation in Nation Building,” provided a pivotal platform for advocating the rights and opportunities for the Hearing Impaired community, particularly the youth.

The summit served as a beacon of hope and encouragement, as advocates rallied behind the cause of empowering young individuals with hearing impairments. With a focus on highlighting the crucial role of quality legislation in fostering national development, the event resonated deeply with attendees, shedding light on the importance of inclusivity in policy-making.

Oyedeji Olusegun Abayomi, who also volunteered as a Deaf Sign Language Interpreter today, and Mr. Kareem Taofeek Abidemi, seized the opportunity to inspire and motivate the Hearing Impaired community, urging them to embrace the available opportunities and contribute meaningfully to the nation's progress. Their presence underscored a commitment to fostering a society where every individual, regardless of disability, is afforded equal rights and opportunities.

As the curtains drew to a close on the summit, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to champion the cause of inclusivity and accessibility. The event stood as a testament to the power of advocacy in effecting positive change and creating a more inclusive society for all.