It Was Incredible!

On Friday, May 18, in Sofia, we launched Days of Abilities – an initiative that unfolded over three days and reached more than 10 Bulgarian cities. With Days of Abilities, we chose to send the strongest message of the National Civic Initiative 7000: the call for the abolition of interdiction and the introduction of supported decision-making. We took to the streets to show that together, we can do anything – create, have fun, learn, and stand up for everyone’s right to a dignified life. On May 18, we took over the heart of Sofia – from 3:00 to 8:00 PM, Vitosha Boulevard was vibrant and alive, filled with color and people who were curious and supportive.

We’re left with many memories and feelings from that day – joyful, energizing, and sunny (even the weather was on our side!). From the Superhero Tent, where anyone could imagine being a world-saver, to the creative stations like Significance Badges, The Lumos Magicians, or hanging out with Einstein and Other Bright Minds, and the socially inspired coffee served by students from First English Language High School, dedicated to human rights advocacy.

A special guest at our event was Rosanna from the Eh Bee Family, with over 5.9 million followers! She filmed a special video for us, which she’ll be sharing on her channel.

Three things that impressed us the most on the Day of Abilities in Sofia:

• Sofia is full of amazing, empathetic and engaged people! In just five hours, we gathered over 800 signatures in support of the campaign and of people with disabilities. The young people were amazing – all they needed were three words: injustice, disability, support!
• There’s nothing better than being together! Words can’t describe the excitement sparked by the Friendship March – accompanied by The Silent White Danube, performed by the brass band of the First English Language High School. It was a parade of pride, joy, and the happiness of simply being together.
• Out in the streets, among the people, we found many allies! One of the best parts was talking to passersby about our cause and what we’re fighting for – and receiving genuine support. Not just for the petition, but for the broader effort to ensure fair treatment and dignity for people with disabilities.

All of us who participated were reminded once again that now, more than ever, we need the tools of civic participation – to believe in them and use them to send our message, both to society and to the institutions.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported us – the Social Café by Interact Club Tangra-Sofia, the brass band from First English Language High School, the musicians, and our amazing volunteer advocates – Albena, Vasya, Sevda, Katya, Antonia, and many more.

Special thanks go to our friends and partners from the teams of: Bulgarian Association for People with Intellectual Disabilities, Federation Global Initiative on Psychiatry, Autism Association, Maria’s World Foundation and Lumos Foundation