The “Raise Your Voice” project was carried out by the Bhimitkom Association in partnership with the Palestinian Vision Foundation, with funding from the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ). The project aimed to facilitate the access of persons with disabilities and highlight the reality of youth with disabilities in the Jerusalem Governorate. It included a series of activities and events, such as:
Training on Advocacy and Lobbying
A two-day training session was held for 18 individuals with disabilities (6 males and 12 females) on advocacy and lobbying techniques. The goal of the training was to raise awareness among participants about advocacy and lobbying mechanisms and leadership in pressure campaigns. The outcomes of this training included the identification of 5 social issues affecting persons with disabilities, which were highlighted through videos produced, filmed, and published on Bhimitkom’s Facebook and Instagram pages. These issues included:
Accessibility of transportation for people with disabilities.
The importance of involving people with disabilities in decision-making processes.
The importance of teaching sign language in schools and educational centers.
The right of people with disabilities to engage in sports hobbies.
The prevailing societal perceptions of people with disabilities.
Discussion Sessions on Key Issues for People with Disabilities in Jerusalem
Three important issues for people with disabilities in the Jerusalem Governorate were selected and presented in discussion sessions held virtually via Zoom. These sessions were broadcast on the Bhimitkom Facebook page in cooperation with the following institutions:
Ministry of Local Government: A session on the accessibility of public places for people with disabilities in Jerusalem.
Jerusalem Health Directorate: A session on the importance of psychological and social support for people with disabilities, particularly in Jerusalem.
Jerusalem Governorate: A session on the governorate’s role in supporting institutions working in the field of disability in Jerusalem.
Sign Language Training
Ten days of training were conducted on basic sign language, with 16 participants from municipalities and grassroots institutions in the Jerusalem Governorate, as well as some individuals with hearing disabilities. This training aimed to enhance the capacity of staff in municipalities and targeted institutions to communicate effectively with individuals with hearing impairments. The training concluded with a ceremony to award certificates in collaboration with the Palestinian Deaf Union.