Singapore’s largest movement championing inclusion and celebrating the abilities of persons with disabilities (PwDs) is back for its 12th edition, and it’s bigger than ever. The Purple Parade 2024 is set to bring a record-breaking 15,000 visitors to Suntec City on October 12, 2024, adding to the over 30,000 who have already participated in 48 island-wide events since August. PwDs, caregivers, and supporters will come together in a powerful show of unity to promote inclusion.
Major Initiatives Lead the Way for PwDs
This year’s event is highlighted by two groundbreaking initiatives. First is the launch of The Purple Parade Limited’s Leadership Development Programme, which kicked off in August 2024. Designed to empower PwDs with leadership skills, this program connects participants with mentors to guide them in overcoming workplace challenges. The first cohort, featuring 11 PwDs, is set to graduate in April 2025, with a goal of developing 50 leaders in three years.
Additionally, Temasek Foundation has committed a substantial $4 million grant to support PwDs in building skills for independent living and lifelong learning. The Purple Parade Limited will regrant this sum to strengthen services and training for those aged 18 and above, addressing the post-18 support gap.
Exciting Parade Highlights
This year’s Purple Parade also introduces the Volunteer Contingent in conjunction with the Year of Celebrating Volunteers. Over 100 volunteers from the movement will march for the first time, joined by Team Singapore Paralympic athletes Yip Pin Xiu and Gemma Foo, fresh from the 2024 Paris Games.
Guest of Honour, Mr. Desmond Lee, Minister for National Development and Minister-in-charge of Social Services Integration, will deliver an address, join the contingent march-past, and visit the vibrant carnival booths alongside other esteemed guests.
Five C’s of The Purple Parade: Campaign, Carnival, Concert, Contingent, and Conversations
- Campaign: The ‘Get IN’ social media campaign encourages everyone to show their support by posting photos and videos, tagging #GetIn, and celebrating inclusion across all platforms.
- Carnival: Visitors can shop official merchandise, enjoy purple-themed food, and explore 46 partner booths in the EAT, PLAY, and SHOP zones. Proceeds go to various social service agencies and charities.
- Concert: The afternoon features 40 performances from PwDs, showcasing their incredible talents in music, dance, and more.
- Contingent: Over 9,000 paraders from 130 groups will march through Suntec City, supported by 1,300 volunteers, creating a powerful visual of solidarity.
- Conversations: Attendees can engage in workshops and listen to inspiring personal stories, fostering deeper understanding and empathy for the disability community.
The Purple Parade 2024 promises to be a historic celebration of inclusion, with exciting initiatives and powerful displays of community support.
