Givers – Not Takers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

Ida Blevins
Uniquely the Same, Inc
(412) 701-4432
ida@uniquelythesame.org

Image 1: Gifts of Hope Shoppers Supporting Fair Trade Artisans;
Image 2: Shoppers Enjoy Complimentary Gourmet Donuts/Bagels/Coffee [Click images for larger view]

GIFTS OF HOPE EVENT DEMONSTRATES THAT PEOPLE AFFECTED BY DISABILITY ARE GIVERS NOT TAKERS

PITTSBURGH, PA (PittsburghNewsWire.com) — “Three of us traveled 125 miles to help at this international holiday market which was brought to Pittsburgh for one day,” says Samantha Hasselbusch. It’s Sam’s first year volunteering at the “Gifts of Hope” Fair Trade Shopping event sponsored by Uniquely the Same, Inc. “It’s not a fundraiser,” interjects her friend Caleb McKinsey, “People with disabilities are not a charity case. We are full participants in world enrichment.” Oh… Did I forget to mention that this traveling trio are also blind?

The three are joining with nearly fifty other volunteers in order to facilitate a Fair Trade shopping event in Pittsburgh’s East Liberty neighborhood from 10am to 2pm on Saturday December 7.

Fair Trade seeks greater equity in international trade by promoting the rights of international producers and workers. Fair prices are paid to producers in order to assure more stable livelihoods for workers. Advocates voice their support in order to make a lasting difference in the world.

These three traveling companions have come to add their voices to the movement, “For this year’s holiday shopping, why not buy gifts that can make a difference? Your purchases can change a life!” But what does this have to do with Disability? Nothing… and that’s the point.

Despite advances in diversity acceptance, the prevailing view of disability is splashed with stigmas, generalizations and stereotypes. But common perceptions are unfounded. It turns out, that people with disabilities are as diverse as all humanity. “We are all ‘Uniquely the Same’,” explains Niral Sheth, the third member of the traveling friends. Just like with all humanity, there are only a few disabled heroes and only a few disabled people who need charity. Most people – both with and without disability – are simply normal people. This trio is one part of that normal diversity of humanity.

Sam, Caleb and Niral are demonstrating that people with disabilities are typical community members. They want everyone to know that individuals affected by disability are not routinely objects of charity. Nor are they typically heroes. This trio feels like being blind is part of their reason for being alive. Blindness is a tool they use to encourage compassion in others – in this case, compassion toward marginalized international workers.

Sam, Caleb and Niral are commendable people without regard for disability or non-disability. It turns out, these three blind people see things very well.

Gifts of Hope is an annual Fair Trade shopping event brought to the Pittsburgh area during the holiday shopping season.

When: Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 10 AM – 2 PM
Where: 6175 Harvard St (Entrance B), Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15206 (EECM Facility)
Info: www.pittsburghfairtrade.org
What: Multiple Fair Trade Vendors | Live Music | Complimentary Coffee and Donuts

Uniquely the Same, Inc is a group of allies who understand and address the core needs of individuals and families affected by disability or economic disadvantage. As a result, we improve the quality of life for all. We are composed of families and individuals affected by disability (physical, intellectual, social, sensory and others) as well as industry professionals, friends and neighbors. We each share the dignity of being made in the image of our maker as well as the struggles that are a part of the human condition. We believe we are better together than as isolated individuals.

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