Public Voices Support for Disabled Children's Equality Through Run for Equality 2026

A total of 1,670 people participated in Run for Equality 2026 to campaign for equality and the fulfilment of children’s rights, including those with disabilities, to play, participate, and grow without discrimination. The event, organised by Plan Indonesia at Senayan Park, Jakarta, on Sunday, was attended by children, families, running communities, persons with disabilities, educational institutions, and corporations. “We want to encourage the creation of more inclusive sports and public spaces so that every child and young person, including children with disabilities, has equal opportunities to participate, play, and develop without discrimination,” said Plan Indonesia Executive Director Dini Widiastusi in an official statement in Jakarta on Sunday. The theme was chosen because data from 2025 from Statistics Indonesia (BPS) and the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Cultural Affairs revealed that only 17.2 percent of productive-age persons with disabilities access formal education. Furthermore, more than half of persons with disabilities still face barriers in accessing basic services, ranging from education, health, and employment to safe and inclusive public spaces. Echoing Dini, National Commission on Disabilities (KND) Commissioner Jonna Aman Damanik asserted that inclusivity must be realised through real experiences, including in sports activities. “Sport is a right for everyone. Inclusivity must also be realised by ensuring children with disabilities can participate meaningfully, safely, and equally. Initiatives like Run for Equality are important steps to build awareness that public spaces must be accessible to all,” said Jonna. Meanwhile, artist and public figure Wulan Guritno also assessed that the event carries a message for parents and caregivers to lovingly continue accompanying children with disabilities so they dare to try, develop, and enjoy every step they take. “Hopefully, more inclusive sports and public spaces will be created, so that every child and family can feel accepted, supported, and become part of society without discrimination,” said Wulan Guritno. The meaning of inclusion was felt directly by Zahra (16), a participant with a disability who took part in the 3K category. “Here I feel accepted and not seen as different. We also want to exercise, socialise, and show that persons with disabilities have the same abilities if given the opportunity. Hopefully, there will be more truly inclusive activities and public spaces, so that more friends with disabilities dare to go out, participate, and show their best potential,” said Zahra.