2024 Annual Report: Rooted in Disability Inclusion, Rising in Collective Power
From DRF’s Executive Director, Connie Laurin-Bowie
It is with great pleasure that we share our 2024 Annual Report: Rooted in Disability Inclusion, Rising in Collective Power. Read the WORD version here.
As I reflect on the work of the Disability Rights Fund (DRF) and the Disability Rights Advocacy Fund, I am struck by the impact of people with disabilities, their organizations and allied advocates in advancing human rights and inclusion in their countries and communities.
In a time of profound global uncertainty and injustice, we are more convinced than ever that disability rights movements are driving the solutions the world urgently needs.
Across regions, DRF’s grantee partners are boldly reshaping communities:
- In Nigeria, partners are advocating for disability-inclusive gender-based violence prevention services.
- In Nepal, Indigenous women and girls with disabilities are organizing to advance their collective rights with a disability lens.
- Across Pacific Island Nations, disability movements are leading calls for inclusive climate action and humanitarian response.
Since 2008 when DRF was founded, nearly 200 national laws, policies, and government programs were enacted or created by the leadership of persons with disabilities.
Last year also marked a pivotal moment for DRF with the launch of our five-year strategic plan, Disability-Led Futures for a Just World. Shaped by the leadership and vision of disability movements in the Global South, this plan is not only a guide — it is a call to action. We also introduced a new brand identity that reflects the spirit and strength of our work: igniting movements and building solidarity. In this moment, it is that strength, resilience and shared values that we all rely on to endure and build for the future.
I want to express my gratitude to the staff and Board of DRF, whose commitment to our values and purpose has ensured the sustainability of our support for organizations of persons with disabilities and other strategic partners. I especially want to thank Lorraine Wapling for all of her contributions to DRF’s work over the years and for her stewardship through 2024.
To navigate the uncertain landscape ahead, we will remain steadfast in our commitment to grassroots movements as our core purpose, while evolving our strategies to meet the challenges ahead. Working with existing and new partners, we will nurture and support shared learning and unity.
We remain grateful to our community of supporters who share our commitment to disability rights. Your contributions and solidarity continue to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities, their families and communities.