Memel Fest’26 hosts cinema day focused on disability awareness

The Memel Fest’26 festival held a Cinema Day featuring six short films focused on the experiences of people with disabilities. The films, originating from France, Ireland, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, explored themes of visibility, communication, and the impact of environmental barriers on individuals with disabilities.

Notable works included the Oscar-winning British film ‘The Silent Child’ by Chris Overton. Following the screenings, a discussion titled ‘First Step’ was held, featuring local officials and activists. Participants discussed the importance of social inclusion, the need for better physical accessibility in Klaipėda, and the role of education in reducing social stigmas.

Gina Vilimaitienė, director of the Klaipėda Municipality Social Affairs Department, emphasized the city's goal to increase accessibility for people with disabilities to ensure full participation in urban life. Vladas Alsys, chairman of the Klaipėda Association of the Disabled, noted improvements in accessibility, such as free event entry, while discussions also touched upon the need for volunteer programs to assist individuals with mobility challenges in attending public events.