英语课程计划-Disabilities happens

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities happens every year. It highlights¹ issues that are an everyday concern for millions of people around the world. It started in 1992 when the United Nations created the day. There is a different focus every year. In 2006, the theme was disability and information technology; in 2007 it was "Decent² Work for Persons with Disabilities"; and in 2008 it was on dignity and justice for those with disabilities. Organizers hope to promote global understanding of disability issues and of the rights and wellbeing of the disabled. People act in many ways to increase awareness³, including organizing events, workshops and campaigns in support of the day.

Disability affects all societies and almost all families at some time. More than 650 million people across the globe live with disabilities. In richer nations, there are very good support systems for the disabled. However, in poorer nations, people with disabilities are further disabled by a lack of help, care, medicines and rights. It is a sad fact that 80 per cent of people with disabilities live in poorer countries. There is a very strong link between poverty and disability. The situation is also tragic⁴ for children. UNESCO says 90 per cent of children with disabilities in developing countries do not go to school. It is important we act on this day and recognize the rights and dignity of people with disabilities.

1 highlights   

n.头发挑染部分；全球知名儿童刊物及相关产品的发行和销售商的名称、商号及商标

参考例句：

• The report highlights the major problems facing society today. 报告特别强调了当今社会所面临的主要问题。
• The report highlights a number of instances of injustice. 这篇报道重点列举了一些不公正的实例。

2 decent   

adj.象样的，不错的，体面的，正派的，恰当的

参考例句：

• We want to raise our children to be decent men and women.我们盼望把孩子们培养成优秀人才。
• There isn't even a decent table in this room.这屋里连张像样的桌子也没有。

3 awareness   

n.意识，觉悟，懂事，明智

参考例句：

• There is a general awareness that smoking is harmful.人们普遍认识到吸烟有害健康。
• Environmental awareness has increased over the years.这些年来人们的环境意识增强了。

4 tragic   

adj.悲剧的，悲剧性的，悲惨的

参考例句：

• The effect of the pollution on the beaches is absolutely tragic.污染海滩后果可悲。
• Charles was a man doomed to tragic issues.查理是个注定不得善终的人。