In a significant stride towards fostering diversity and inclusivity, TikTok commemorates the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with the introduction of #DisabilityPower. This pioneering initiative, undertaken in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, underscores TikTok’s commitment to empowering individuals with diverse abilities and promoting a more inclusive digital space. As the platform joins forces with a governmental partner, the launch of #DisabilityPower signifies a dedicated effort to amplify the voices and stories of persons with disabilities, fostering a more accessible and equitable online community.
Currently, Thailand has over 2,240,537 disabled individuals (Data from Department from Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, as of September 30, 2023), accounting for 3.39% of the Thai population. As a platform dedicated to unlocking opportunities for everyone, TikTok recognizes the unique talents and professional growth potential of the disabled community. The platform is committed to integrating them into the community to support equality, inclusivity, and create a space for creative participation, enabling everyone to have a presence in the digital world and safely generate income.
TikTok’s dedication to inclusivity extends beyond entertainment, fostering a platform where diversity is celebrated and educational insights from the disabled community are embraced. This commitment is the cornerstone of TikTok’s initiatives, promoting a culture where every voice, particularly those of individuals with disabilities, is heard and valued.
TikTok initiated the #DisabilityPower campaign in 2022, aimed at creating a safe space for disabled creators and fostering a community that generates positive energy for one another. The campaign has been a huge success, with over 18 million content views. It features inspirational content and tips on how to use TikTok’s features for people with disabilities. This widespread participation indicates the campaign’s popularity, offering endless opportunities for creators and users alike.
“We are passionately committed to creating a world where inclusivity is not just a goal, but a reality. We believe that everyone, regardless of their background or abilities, deserves equal opportunities and rights. This commitment drives us to develop a platform that welcomes and celebrates diversity in all its forms. Our #DisabilityPower campaign is not just a campaign but a declaration of our commitment to ensuring that the disabled are recognized and supported to thrive on the TikTok platform. We remain steadfast in our mission to create a digital world that is safe, accessible, and creatively enriching for everyone,” said Chanida Klyphun Head of Public Policy – TikTok, Thailand.
To uplift equality and reaffirm its commitment to enhancing opportunities for the disabled, TikTok participated in the International Day of Persons with Disabilities event organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. The initiative aimed to help disabled individuals get familiar with TikTok, create content safely, and apply these skills in their careers as creators. The event also featured representatives from TikTok Awards Thailand 2023 winners, including Miami7824 and Cheerballwithearn, who shared their inspiring stories and experiences gained from the TikTok platform.
Miami7824, a representative creator with disabilities, was honored with the Story of The Small Award for the contents of her special needs daughter named Miami, a Down Syndrome child, recognized as “the Clear Voice Star” by the Rajanukul Institute due to her melodious voice, dancing, and makeup artistry skills. Together, they share uplifting content to inspire and provide encouragement for the disabled community, breaking through self-imposed limitations. They contribute to fostering a positive image for disabled individuals within the TikTok community. Additionally, Cheerballwithearn (K. Earn), a rising new creator who received the Rising Creator of the Year Award, passionately creates football-related content on the platform. Whether delivering football news, game analyses, or touring various football fields. She has garnered substantial followers and collaborates to share inspiring stories, positive experiences, and professional opportunities derived from the TikTok platform.
Miami’s mother shared at the event, “Initially, we only watched others’ content, and enjoyed filming videos of my child doing various activities. Then, we decided to create our account to share the developmental journey of children with Down syndrome. We also wanted to correct societal misconceptions about the disabled and children with special needs, showing that they can be self-reliant and live in society. We hoped to encourage people to give them a chance and not judge them by their appearance, while also bringing smiles and inspiration to our viewers. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with followers and engagement growing, and constant support and encouragement for Miami.”
“From being an ordinary, small person who loves football, TikTok has given me the space to be myself, to think and act on what I want to do, making it a reality. It’s a platform that creates a safe space for everyone to grow, whether new creators or the disabled. With only a dream and a desire to share experiences, you can achieve success through the TikTok platform” added K. Earn aka Cheerballwithearn.
TikTok continues its mission to spark creativity and bring joy to people, believing that everyone, regardless of their group, deserves care and equal rights. TikTok stands as a platform of opportunities, open to diverse users, allowing them to establish their identity in the digital world safely.
