[:de]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:en]
Click here for the easy-to-read version
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind it.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Elisabeta Moldovan signing her book “Becoming Eli”
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of what discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the people who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
Cover of the book “Becoming Eli”
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked on and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
What was it like to hold the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and the rest of Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Find all our anniversary news on social media by following #30yearsofInclusion on Facebook and Twitter
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious national specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and donors.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.
Register here for the World Congress
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Easy-to-read version
Click on a word which is in bold to read what it means.
“I experienced a lot of abuse in institutions.
I want to change this situation for others.”
Inclusion Europe turns 30 years old in 2018.
We are celebrating this in a special way:
we are looking at what has been done in Europe
to make sure people are included.
Every month we will talk about one person 
who has worked towards inclusion in Europe.
Our Inclusion Hero in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Elisabeta has spent most of her life in institutions.
In 2012, Elisabeta moved from an institution to living on her own.
She started working at an organisation for self-advocates in Romania
called Ceva de Spus.
Ceva de Spus is a member of Inclusion Europe.
She is also a member of the European Platform of Self-Advocates
(in short, EPSA).
A book was written about Elisabeta.
It is called Becoming Eli.
You can get it in Romanian and English.
We did an interview with Elisabeta:
Why did you become a self-advocate?
Elisabeta said that she became a self-advocate because
she wanted to learn about her own rights.
She was treated badly in institutions.
She wants to make sure other people are not treated badly.
How are people with intellectual disabilities treated in Romania?
Elisabeta said that people with intellectual disabilities
are often treated badly in Romania.
People with intellectual disabilities are starting to
learn more about their rights in Romania.
But they still face discrimination by many people.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
Elisabeta said that she has learned a lot.
For example, about how to talk with others and speak in public.
She has learned about topics such as violence against women.
She has learned what discrimination looks like.
Who came up with the idea of writing Becoming Eli?
Cover of the book “Becoming Eli”
Elisabeta said many people wanted her to make her story public.
Her friend turned her story into a book with pictures.
She found it hard to share what happened to her.
But she wants people to know about life in institutions.
She hopes that parents will not leave their children in institutions any more.
She hopes that people who live in institutions can get out of there
and have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
Elisabeta said it took 2 years to write the book.
She met her friend who drew the pictures
once every month in a coffee shop.
They worked on 1 story at a time,
and then put all the stories together.
How did it feel to hold the book in your hands for the first time?
Elisabeta said she was happy and felt proud of her achievement.
What changes would you like to see in Europe?
Elisabeta would like people with intellectual disabilities
to be able to live independently.
People with intellectual disabilities have the right to a good life,
like everyone else.
Find out more about the book Becoming Eli and where to buy it.
Find out about our birthday on social media by
clicking #30yearsofInclusion on Facebook and Twitter.
Celebrating 30 years of European inclusion
At the World Congress of Inclusion International,
Inclusion Europe will celebrate its 30th birthday with a special event.
Inclusion Europe’s members will talk about
what they have done for inclusion over the last 30 years.
They will also share their national foods and culture.
Participants will learn about how the members of Inclusion Europe
have worked together over the past 30 years.
Participants will also learn about how the members of Inclusion Europe
have worked with other companies, governments and donors.
We will end the event in a special way: with a drink and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.
Register here for the World Congress.
Use the hashtag #LearnInspireLead on Facebook and Twitter.[:fi]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:fr]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:nl]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:sv]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:it]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:sl]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:ro]Faceți clic aici pentru versiunea ușor de citit
Elisabeta Moldovan semnând cartea ei Spune-mi Eli
Dupǎ ce și-a petrecut copilǎria în diferite instituții din România, Elisabeta Moldovan și-a început viața independentǎ în 2012, implicându-se în același an în mișcarea românǎ de incluziune ca autoreprezentant în cadrul grupului Ceva de spus, membru al asociației Inclusion Europe. În 2013, Elisabeta s-a alǎturat platformei europene a autoreprezentanților (EPSA). În 2017, un roman grafic bazat pe povestea vieții ei a fost publicat în românǎ și englezǎ : Spune-mi Eli (Becoming Eli).
Am întrebat-o pe Elisabeta despre experiența ei în instituții ca autoreprezentant și despre ambițiile ei pentru viitorul mișcǎrii de incluziune.
De ce ai devenit autoreprezentant?
Am devenit autoreprezentant pentru cǎ am vrut sǎ-mi cunosc drepturile în calitate de persoanǎ cu dizabilitǎți. În instituțiile în care am trǎit, m-am confruntat cu multe abuzuri. Am vrut sǎ schimb situația pentru ceilalți. Autoreprezentanța m-a ajutat și sǎ mǎ dezvolt ca persoanǎ.
Care era situația persoanelor cu dizabilitǎți intelectuale în România înainte sǎ-ți începi activitatea de autoreprezentant? Care sunt aspectele care s-au îmbunǎtǎțit și ce probleme persistǎ?
Persoanele cu dizabilitǎți intelectuale se numǎrǎ printre grupurile cele mai discriminate din România. Recent au început sǎ învețe mai multe despre drepturile lor datoritǎ acțiunilor de formare, conferințelor și ajutorului din partea mișcǎrii de incluziune și autoreprezentare. Dar tot sunt discriminați în general, chiar și de instituții. Discriminarea este o experiențǎ zilnicǎ pentru cei cu dizabilitǎți în România.
Ce ai învǎțat și ce ai realizat prin munca ta la EPSA?
Am învǎțat multe la EPSA: de exemplu, sǎ comunic mai bine cu ceilalți și sǎ vorbesc în public. Am fost instruitǎ în privința subiectelor ca violența împotriva femeilor cu dizabilitǎți, și am devenit mai conștientǎ de formele pe care le poate lua discriminarea.
„Spune-mi Eli”, o carte despre povestea ta, tocmai a fost publicatǎ. Cine a avut idea de a scrie acest roman grafic?
Oamenii din jurul meu m-au încurajat sǎ-mi fac povestea cunoscutǎ, și un prieten s-a ocupat de partea graficǎ. Mi-a fost greu sǎ-mi împǎrtǎșesc experiențele. Dar am vrut ca oamenii sǎ conștientizeze viața în instituții și cum am putea schimba lucrurile. Sper ca în viitor pǎrinții sǎ nu-și mai pǎrǎseascǎ copiii și ca cei care încǎ locuiesc în instituții sǎ aibǎ șansa la o viațǎ mai bunǎ.
Coperta cǎrții Spune-mi Eli
[Description of the photo : Coperta cǎrții Spune-mi Eli]
Cât timp ți-a luat sǎ-ți spui povestea?
A durat doi ani ca sǎ ajungem la versiunea finalǎ. Mǎ întâlneam cu prietenul meu în fiecare lunǎ în oraș la o cafea ca sǎ vorbim. Îmi arǎta mereu ce a lucrat între timp iar eu îi dǎdeam un feedback. Am lucrat fiecare poveste în parte dupǎ care am asambat totul într-un întreg.
Cum a fost sǎ îți ții cartea în mâini pentru prima datǎ?
Am fost foarte fericitǎ și m-am simțit mândrǎ!
Ce schimbǎri ai vrea sǎ vezi implementate pentru persoanele cu dizabilitǎți intelectuale în România și în restul Europei?
Înainte de toate, aș vrea sǎ vǎd cǎ toate persoanele cu dizabilitǎți au capacitatea de a pǎrǎsi instituțiile pentru a trǎi o viațǎ independentǎ în comunitate. Accesibilitatea și șansa la o viațǎ de calitate este un drept pentru toatǎ lumea, și ar trebui sǎ devinǎ și o realitate! Toate persoanele cu dizabilitǎți trebuie sǎ-și cunoascǎ drepturile și sǎ fie împuterniciți sǎ lupte pentru ele.
Aflǎ mai multe despre Spune-mi Eli și unde o poti cumpǎra
Versiune ușor de citit
“M-am confruntat cu multe abuzuri în instituții.
Am vrut sǎ schimb situația pentru ceilalți.”
Elisabeta Moldovan și-a petrecut mare parte a vieții
în diferite instituții din România.
Din 2012, Elisabeta trǎiește independent în comunitate
și a început să lucreze la o organizație de autoreprezentanți din România
numită Ceva de Spus.
Ceva de Spus este membră a Inclusion Europe.
Elisabeta este și membră a Platformei Europene a Autoreprezentanților.
În 2017, s-a scris și o carte ilustratǎ despre Elisabeta.
Se numește Spune-mi Eli și a fost publicatǎ și în englezǎ.
I-am pus Elisabetei niște întrebări despre experiența
ei ca autoreprezentant și despre dorințele ei legate de mișcarea de incluziune:
De ce ai devenit autoreprezentant?
Am devenit autoreprezentant pentru că am vrut
să învăt despre drepturile mele ca persoanǎ cu dizabilitǎți.
Am fost tratată rău în instituții și vreau să mă asigur
că alte persoane nu vor mai fi tratate așa.
Am devenit autoreprezentant și ca sǎ mǎ dezvolt ca persoanǎ.
Cum sunt tratate persoanele cu dizabilități intelectuale în România?
Ce s-a schimbat și ce probleme mai existǎ încǎ?
Persoanele cu dizabilități intelectuale sunt tratate rău în România.
Persoanele cu dizabilități încep să afle mai multe despre drepturile lor în România
cu ajutorul mișcǎrii de incluziune și autoreprezentare.
Dar încă se confruntă cu discriminarea din partea multora,
chiar și din partea instituțiilor.
Ce ai învățat și ai obținut prin munca ta de la Platforma Europeanǎ a Autoreprezentanților?
Am învățat multe.
De exemplu, cum să vorbesc cu ceilalți și să țin un discurs.
Am învățat despre subiecte precum violența împotriva femeilor cu dizabilitǎți.
Am aflat câte forme de discriminare există.
A cui a fost idea de a scrie Spune-mi Eli?
Mulți oameni m-au sfătuit să îmi fac publică povestea
și un prieten mi-a transformat povestea într-o carte cu imagini.
Mi-a fost greu să împărtășesc ce mi s-a întâmplat.
Dar vreau ca oamenii să afle despre viața în instituții.
Sper ca părinții să nu își mai abandoneze copiii în instituții
și ca cei care trǎiesc încǎ în instituții sǎ aibǎ șansa la un viitor mai bun.
Cât de mult a durat să îți spui povestea?
Scrierea cărții a durat 2 ani.
Mă întâlneam cu prietenul meu care făcea desenele în fiecare lună,
la o cafea.
Îmi arǎta ce a lucrat și eu îmi dǎdeam cu pǎrerea.
Lucram pe rând la câte o poveste,
apoi le-am pus cap la cap pe toate.
Cum a fost să ții cartea în mână pentru prima dată?
Am fost fericită și m-am simțit mândră.
Ce schimbări ți-ar plăcea să vezi în România și în Europa
pentru persoanele cu dizabilitǎți?
Mi-ar pIăcea ca persoanele cu dizabilități intelectuale s
ă primească sprijin pentru a locui independent, în afara instituțiilor.
Persoanele cu dizabilități intelectuale au dreptul la o viață de calitate,
la fel ca toți ceilalți.
Toate persoanele cu dizabilitǎți ar trebui
sǎ-și cunoascǎ drepturile și sǎ poatǎ sǎ lupte pentru ele.
Poți să aflii mai multe despre cartea Spune-mi Eli și de unde poți să o cumperi aici: bit.ly/BecomingEli[:hu]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:es]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:pt]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:pl]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:hr]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:tr]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:et]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:el]
#30yearsofInclusion – Inclusion Europe turns 30 in 2018!
To mark this year, we will be highlighting and celebrating inclusion in Europe in its various forms and practices – and the people behind.
Every month we will present one person who has brought the Inclusion movement forward in Europe.
Our Inclusion Heroine in January is Elisabeta Moldovan.
Having grown up in different institutions in Romania, Elisabeta Moldovan went on to live independently in 2012 and became involved in the Romanian inclusion movement in the same year, working at Inclusion Europe’s member Ceva de Spus. In 2013, Elisabeta joined EPSA, the European Platform of Self-Advocates. Finally, in 2017, a graphic novel about her story was published in Romanian and English: “Becoming Eli“.
We asked Elisabeta about her experiences in institutions and as a self-advocate, and about her wishes for the future of the inclusion movement.
Why did you become a self-advocate?
I became a self-advocate because I wanted to know my rights as a person with disabilities. In the institutions I lived in, I experienced a lot of abuse. I wanted to change this situation for others. As a self-advocate, I also wanted to develop myself as a person.
What was the situation for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania when you started your advocacy work? What are the things that have improved and which problems still persist?
Persons with intellectual disabilities are among the most discriminated groups in Romania. Lately, they have learned more about their rights thanks to trainings, conferences and support from the inclusion and self-advocacy movement. But they still face discrimination – as a general negative attitude, but also from institutions. Discrimination is an everyday experience for all people with disabilities in Romania.
What have you learned and achieved when working at EPSA?
I have learned a lot at EPSA: for example, to better communicate with others and to speak in public. I was also trained on different topics, such as violence against women with disabilities, and I became more aware of how discrimination can look like.
“Becoming Eli”, a book about your story has just been published. Who came up with the idea of writing the graphic novel?
The people around me encouraged me to make my story public, and a friend of mine did the graphic novel. It was difficult for me to share what I experienced. But I wanted to raise awareness on life in institutions and on how to make a change. I hope that in future parents will not abandon their children anymore and that the persons who still live in institutions will have a chance for a better life.
How long did it take you to tell your story?
It took two years to write the final version. My friend and I met monthly at a coffee in town and talked. He always showed me what he had worked upon and I gave him feedback. We worked on one story at a time, and then we put them all together.
How was it like holding the book in your hands for the first time?
I was very happy to see it and felt proud!
What changes would you like to see implemented for people with intellectual disabilities in Romania and in Europe?
First of all, I would like to see that all persons with intellectual disabilities can move out of institutions and live an independent life in the community. Accessibility and the chance for a quality life is a right for everyone, and it should become a reality! All persons with disabilities should know their rights and be empowered to fight for them.
Find out more about the book “Becoming Eli” and where to buy it
Flavours of European inclusion: celebrating 30 years of learning, working and achieving together
At Inclusion International’s World Congress, Inclusion Europe will celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special event.
Inclusion Europe members will present not only their country’s food, culture and customs, but also their inclusion achievements during the last 30 years at tables spread across the room.
Participants are invited to discover stories, pictures and objects illustrating how the inclusion movement has moved forward during the last three decades, while tasting delicious nacional specialties and making new connections.
They will learn about successful practices of European collaboration for inclusion and about partnerships national members have formed with companies, government agencies and funders.
We will end the anniversary event in style: with a toast and a little surprise.
Afterwards, participants can join the World Congress party.[:]
