Context

In Argentina, 2.2 million people have some kind of disability, according to the last INDEC (National Statistics Institute) census in November 2004. Most of them live below the poverty line, further exacerbating their situation. This indicates that in at least one in five homes in Argentina lives someone with a disability. These estimates impact, socio-economically speaking, more than 8.8 million Argentines. Moreover, 9.9% of the argentine population is older than 65 and more susceptible to a disability, therefore increasing the estimates significantly.

At La Usina – The change in disability, a non-profit organization, we work to promote the freedom of people with disabilities.

Why do we use the word “freedom”? Because we know that through various reasons, people with disabilities do not engage in – yet – all of the facets a democratic and plural society should offer all of its citizens.
We live in a community that still does not appreciate the true value of diversity as a form of cultural enrichment.
At La Usina we are devoted to constructing a real and sustainable change, so people with disabilities can live in a society that acknowledges their full rights as citizens.
We encourage the promotion of opportunities so that people with disabilities can choose their place in their community, fully developing their capabilities.
Because of this, and understanding that being free is one of the key components to a happy and fulfilling life, we focus on two strategies that together accomplish our ultimate goal: to generate a change in attitude towards people with disabilities by creating awareness regarding the issue of disability, and to promote an active citizenship, in order to ultimately build a society amongst all and for all.
We invite everyone to participate in the change.

Thank you!
Bea Pellizzari, Social Psychologist
Director
Ashoka Fellow

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