A program which connects Indigenous Australians with disability through art and traditional cultural storytelling is set to be highlighted at a United Nations exhibition in Switzerland.
Our Insurance Commissioner Neil Singleton recently met with representatives from the First Peoples Disability Network (FPDN) to hear about the Sunshine Coast-based NuunaRon art group which promotes the importance of art and its healing effects for Indigenous people living with a disability.
Mr Singleton said the FPDN had been invited to present its ‘Culture is Inclusion’ exhibition at the Palais des Nations in Geneva to coincide with Australia’s appearance before the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on 12 September.
The exhibition aims to promote the benefits of art and cultural storytelling in healing and building individual resilience.
“Sadly way too many of these disabilities are the result of motor vehicle crashes, often the result of dangerous driving or drink driving,” said Mr Singleton.
“As the regulator of Queensland’s compulsory third party insurance scheme, MAIC funds a range of road trauma, rehabilitation and disability-focused programs.
“We are pleased to assist FPDN to share their message in Geneva which aligns with the United Nations’ Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011-2020,” said Mr Singleton.
‘Uncle’ Paul Calcott from the FPDN welcomed the MAIC sponsorship.
“Two of our participating artists are survivors of horrific motor vehicle crashes. One of those has been left with an acquired brain injury requiring lifelong care,” said Mr Calcott.
“Many crashes are seen as simple statistics, but through this program we aim to highlight the personal and emotional connection that motor vehicle accidents have on people’s lives.
More information about FPDN and NuunaRon, including opportunities to contribute to or support their work, visit their website.
Pictured: Uncle Paul Calcott from FPDN shares the story behind an artwork with Insurance Commissioner Neil Singleton.