A protest organized by the Centro de Vida Independente (CVI) brought together dozens of individuals with disabilities, as well as members from other groups, public figures, and supporters. They gathered in front of the steps of the Assembly of the Republic while the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was read aloud.
“We are here today because we are tired of our lives being put on hold, tired of not being able to fulfill our social roles, tired of feeling like second-class citizens, tired of not being able to be with our peers, tired of not enjoying our families and loved ones equally,” explained the president of CVI to Lusa.
Diana Santos emphasized that the complete reading of the convention was intended as a reminder to the Portuguese state of its obligation to comply, having ratified the convention, by enacting laws that meet the needs of people with disabilities.
The protest aimed to highlight ongoing issues related to independent living, particularly in terms of personal assistance, which she described as “an essential vehicle for exercising citizenship” for people with disabilities.
“At the moment, it exists for just over a thousand people in Portugal. We demand compliance with the regulations and the opening of more vacancies in centers supporting independent living, as there are hundreds waiting,” she asserted, calling for a nationwide initiative.
She noted the absence of independent living support centers in Leiria and Covilhã and that only two exist in Lisbon, despite its large disabled population.
A personal assistant at the protest discussed the lack of professional regulation, absence of career progression, and precarious contracts, earning slightly more than the national minimum wage monthly with Lusa.
Benilde, 60, explained that personal assistants are employed by institutions managing independent living centers, funded through Social Security.
“We have had the same salary for nine years without professional acknowledgment or job security,” she criticized, adding she assists five individuals and works 40 hours weekly.
Despite these challenges, Benilde continues in this role because of her personal connection, being the mother of a disabled individual. “I enjoy making a difference in others’ lives and feel fulfilled in this profession, hoping it will truly be recognized,” she expressed.
The CVI president highlighted transportation as “a crucial issue,” saying, “For someone living inland, they’re trapped in their own village or town, which is extremely limiting for those seeking freedom just to exist.”
There is also concern about potential rollbacks on some initiatives, with fears of losing rights growing. She criticized a proposal by the Democratic Alliance included in the State Budget that introduces means testing for personal assistance access.
Initially, the protest was to include a vigil, demanding an urgent meeting with the Secretary of State for Social Action and Inclusion. The vigil was canceled after the government official scheduled a meeting for today at 6:45 p.m.
