International Spinal Cord Injury Day observed in Uruguay and Spain

September 5 marks the International Spinal Cord Injury Day, observed with various commemorative activities in Uruguay and Spain to promote inclusion, accessibility, and disability rights.

In Lavalleja, Uruguay, the Departmental Board honored Federico Estévez, a member of the Disability Advisory Council. A note from Estévez highlighted the importance of addressing architectural, transport, and communication barriers, noting that spinal cord injuries—often caused by traffic accidents or diving accidents—should not limit a person's ability to participate fully in society.

In Jerez, Spain, the local government and the organization Aspaym organized awareness activities. Mayor María José García-Pelayo emphasized municipal efforts to improve accessibility through sidewalk improvements, the introduction of accessible urban buses, and the development of a social rights plan. The event included a manifesto calling for better visibility of the reality faced by those with spinal cord injuries and a commitment to public policy and prevention.