On December 11, the 2024 Cross-Strait Disability Exchange Carnival Theme Forum, themed “Hand in Hand as Compatriots, Boundless Love – Promoting Integrated Development Together”, opened in Xiamen. The event brought together representatives from disability organizations, people with disabilities, and experts and scholars from both sides of the Taiwan Strait to exchange ideas and experiences.
Since its inception in 2015, the Cross-Strait Disability Exchange Carnival Theme Forum has been widely welcomed by people with disabilities on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Over the past decade, through a rich variety of activities, the forum has encouraged people with disabilities from both sides to step out of their homes, integrate into society, share bonds as compatriots, and celebrate the achievements of social progress. While enhancing the effectiveness of cooperation and exchanges between people with disabilities across the Strait, it has also played a key role in exploring new paths for the integrated development of disability services on both sides.
During the opening day’s “Promoting Integrated Development Together” exchange and sharing session, participants engaged in discussions on promoting social integration, environmental integration, employment integration, and artistic integration. Additionally, the “Creating a Better Life”亲情融合无障碍两岸康复健步走 (Family Integration and Barrier-Free Cross-Strait Rehabilitation Walk) invited guests to walk along the Xiamen Mountain-Sea Health Trail, enjoying scenic spots such as the Twin Towers and Huangcuo Beach, fostering health and friendship. The “Sharing Artistic Fragrance” Cultural and Creative Art Exhibition showcased over 200 works of art, including calligraphy, paintings, and cultural products created by people with disabilities from both sides of the Taiwan Strait, offering a platform for cultural exchange and skill-sharing.
Organizers noted that compared to previous years, this year’s forum featured an expanded “circle of friends,” a deepened focus on collaborative exchanges, and a stronger emotional connection between people on both sides. Notably, the event has strengthened cooperation with Taiwanese disability organizations, introducing new activities such as the Family Integration and Barrier-Free Cross-Strait Rehabilitation Walk, a promotional event for disability chess, and a cultural and sports exchange through art exhibitions. These activities further exemplified the spirit of self-reliance and resilience among people with disabilities across the Strait.
The event will last for three days. During this time, a series of activities will be held, including the “Cross-Strait Connection” Disability Chess Promotion and grassroots exchange programs.
