As we step into 2021 there is a sense of cautious hope spreading throughout the nation. Hope that vaccines will work. Hope that cases will fall. Hope that this strange way of life will finally end. I share in this hope; however, it is not my only hope for 2021.
Despite 1 in 5 Scots having some form of disability, for the last 5 years I have been the only MSP in Holyrood with a physical disability. I find it frustrating that a country that prides itself on inclusivity fails to provide representation to one of the biggest minority groups, but looking ahead I see an opportunity to change this.
This year we will cast our vote in the Scottish Election and choose those who will represent us for the next 5 years. It is my hope that come May we will be able to look around and see people with all kinds of disabilities take up seats at every side of the chamber; and that Holyrood will lead the way, displaying what true disability inclusion looks like.
I hope that that young people growing up with a disability can look to the Scottish Parliament and be inspired as they see people just like them speaking up and having their voice heard.
I hope that this year the tide will change for disability representation, and that those of us who campaigned for disability inclusion will look back at 2021 as the year where things finally changed.