SCHOOLCHILDREN in Limerick are encouraged to paint a picture of inclusivity as part of an art competition that focuses on intellectual and non-visible disabilities.
The ‘Someone Like Me’ art competition was officially launched by Minister of State with responsibility for disability, Anne Rabbitte, and is organised by the National Disability Authority.
The competition has seen thousands of primary school children submit projects over the last seven years, all of which were inspired by their learning about inclusivity and diversity through the medium of art, as well as their own personal experiences of disability.
Minister Rabbitte said: “The headline Census 2022 figures for disability show that a total of 1,109,557 people reported experiencing at least one long-lasting condition or difficulty to any extent, accounting for 22 per cent of the population.”
“Many people with a non-visible disability face the everyday prospect of having to explain to others that they have a disability. This is something they may not always want to do.
“Therefore, this year, we are placing a particular emphasis on cultivating a greater understanding and awareness of non-visible and intellectual disabilities amongst our young people.”
The competition, which offers a range of prizes up to the value of €1,250, is open to all primary school pupils from junior infants to sixth class and entries are welcome from individual pupils, a class, or even a whole school as a combined effort.
Entries can come in all shapes and sizes and can be anything from a poster or collage to a papier-mâché or mixed media sculpture.
There will be a junior and senior category winner in every county, along with an overall national winner.
Entries will be accepted until November 10 and teachers and principals can get more information on SomeoneLikeMeCompetition.ie.
