The exchange program facilitated opportunities for Bahraini professionals to observe and learn from U.S. counterparts, and to gain invaluable first-hand experiences of inclusive communities, including accessible public spaces, inclusive schools and universities, and disability-related reasonable accommodations in the workplace.
Activities included intensive, highly interactive seminars and professional meetings, site visits, cross-cultural activities, and strategic planning sessions. Bahraini delegates had opportunities to meet youth and adults with disabilities, policy-makers and government agency administrators, and to participate in discussions with established and successful non-governmental organizations led by people with disabilities. They experienced inclusive, rights-based communities, in which independence, equal opportunities and full participation of citizens with disabilities are expected in school, work, and community life.
The high-level delegation, selected by the U.S. Embassy – Manama, included individuals positioned to be champions for disability inclusion in Bahrain. Delegates represented the following agencies and organizations:
- Ministry of Social Development
- Bahrain ADHD Society
- Bahrain Multiple Sclerosis Patients Society
- Bahraini Association for Intellectual Disability and Autism
- Bahrain Mobility International Centre
From independent living and early childhood intervention, to inclusive employment and adaptive recreation, these delegates are now further equipped to support effective change that will strengthen disability rights in Bahrain. Delegates reflected,
“The ‘twin track’ [model] is great. In Bahrain, we built a place for disabled people, but for them only. It is not public. Here in Eugene, the idea is to [include people with disabilities] everywhere. It is a great idea.”
“This program showed us how accessibility is important in all public places. What we can do, if we find there are places that [are not accessible], we can act on it and advocate.”
“I was surprised the way that communities and organizations treat people with disabilities. You don’t feel they are [treated] differently. Everything here is accessible, and everyone can use the same things. I will bring this to Bahrain.”
Since 1981, Mobility International USA (MIUSA) has conducted short-term international exchange programs focusing on disability rights and leadership. The program was sponsored by the U.S. Embassy Manama, Bahrain, as well as contributions from MIUSA and the Eugene/Springfield community.
