Why World CP Day deserves UN recognition
October 6 is World CP Day. If you’re reading this blog, you’re probably already aware of that, which is great!
Unfortunately, unless they’ve got disabled loved ones or are disabled themselves, most people would have no idea what this day is, or why it exists.
I want to change that.
I work with CPActive. We’re a group of advocates with Cerebral Palsy.
Since 2012, people with CP have used World CP Day to raise awareness of the barriers we face and celebrate the diversity and strength of our community.
In 2026, CPActive are leading the charge to get World CP Day officially recognised as a day observed by the United Nations.
To launch this campaign, we’re gathering at Parliament House in our respective capital cities at 2pm on Tuesday 6 October, as a demonstration of our community’s collective power.
From then on, the hard work begins.
In 2026, CPActive are leading the charge to get World CP Day officially recognised as a day observed by the United Nations.
How does a day of significance become endorsed by the United Nations?
Only the UN General Assembly can designate a day as an International Day. The General Assembly meets once a year to discuss high level matters, such as the UN budget as well as any issues or situations that might impact world peace or security.
A Member State must propose an international day to the General Assembly. Australia is a Member State of the General Assembly, and we’ll need to work with individuals and organisations to create a strong and irrefutable proposal.
This isn’t a goal we can achieve quickly or easily, but it’s one I believe we can eventually achieve, together.
Why is UN recognition important?
World CP Day has gained momentum in the years since it was formed, but there’s still so much more to be done. many misconceptions about CP and low expectations of those of us who live with it.
To have World CP Day formally celebrated would bring it to the attention of people and organisations who might not otherwise hear about it, or about CP.
But these days do more than raise awareness. The UN invites its member states to take action based on an issue pertaining to different observance days. This can lead to a global, coordinated commitment to change.
In this case, it could lead to a more accessible and inclusive world for people with CP and, by extension, all disabled people.
How can you help?
I’m going to be at Parliament House in my capital city at 2pm on October 6, wearing a green dress with matching jewelry. If you want to get involved, you can join us at Parliament House in your Australian capital city.
Register on the World CP Day website to let us know you’ll be there.
We know it’s the middle of a work day, and in person gatherings aren’t accessible for everyone. That why we’ve got other ways you can show up.
You can:
• Wear green (the colour of World CP Day) and post on social media about why, and what World CP Day means to you. You can use the hashtags #WorldCPDay and #UniqueAndUnited
• Follow advocates with CP on social media, such as Paralympian Tamsin Colley
• Watch films or TV shows with actors and characters with CP, like Latecomers on SBS on Demand
• Read books about CP and similar disability. The Pretty One by Keah Brown is a great place to start.
Happy World CP Day! Let’s change the world!
