On 15 November 2014, the Disabled People’s Association (DPA) participated in a movement that supports inclusion and celebrates the abilities of persons with disabilities. The Purple Parade was organised by Autism Association Singapore, Autism Resource Centre (Singapore), Central Singapore CDC, National Council of Social Service, SG Enable, Very Special Arts, and managed by Adrenalin. The event was held at Hong Lim Park from 3pm to 7pm.
A massive crowd of 5,000 from diverse backgrounds, sectors and professions came decked out in purple. Among them were Government ministers like Mr Teo Ser Luck, Ms Sim Ann and Mr Lawrence Wong, and Nominated Member of Parliament (MP) Ms Chia Yong Yong and MP Ms Denise Phua. Veteran local actor Mr Chew Chor Meng was also present for the event. Government agencies, mainstream schools, corporate volunteer groups, Special Education schools and various voluntary welfare organisations (VWOs) also joined in the celebration as parade contingents. Members of the public showed their support by purchasing the Purple Parade merchandise, food and beverages as well as handicrafts.
DPA was one of the 85 participating contingents this year. A total of 63 people joined DPA’s contingent, including volunteers, members, staff, friends and families. Our contingent members wore purple t-shirts, DPA badges, purple orchid flower garlands and held purple glowsticks. Nine of our members also held placards displaying DPA’s public education posters. After the concert ended at 3:30pm, our contingent marched in the parade. Following that DPA members were free to join the carnival, some of whom sprayed purple dye on their hair to help break the record of the largest gathering of people with purple hair in Singapore.
DPA was happy to be part of this event and was glad to see the entire community coming together to show support for persons with disabilities. This was DPA’s first time participating in the event and having seen the fantastic efforts of the other contingents DPA hopes to make a bigger impact next year. DPA thanks its volunteers and members for coming down on the day and being part of DPA’s inaugural Purple Parade contingent.
DPA congratulates the organisers of The Purple Parade for a job well done and looks forward to being part of the Purple Parade again next year.
For more information on the event, please visit The Purple Parade’s website.
For more photos of the event, please visit our facebook.
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