The Syrian Future Movement commemorates International Acceptance Day, observed annually on January 20th, in honor of Annie Hopkins, who passed away on this day in 2009. Annie Hopkins, along with her brother Stevie, founded the organization 3E Love and created the international symbol of acceptance (a wheelchair integrated with a heart), representing society’s acceptance of people with disabilities as equals, and their acceptance of themselves and their abilities—a profound message of embracing diversity and transforming it into a collective strength.
This day originated as a grassroots initiative and a tribute to Annie Hopkins. It is primarily celebrated by individuals, NGOs, and local associations working in the field of disability rights worldwide to promote awareness and social acceptance.
The Syrian Future Movement views this International Day as a humanitarian and ethical call that transcends borders, affirming that “acceptance” is a fundamental principle that must govern our social and national relations. This call is inspired by the values of Islam and Christianity and by Syria’s long-standing traditions, which emphasize human dignity regardless of color, religion, disability, or ethnic or sectarian affiliation.
The Syrian Future Movement affirms that Syria, with its long history of coexistence and diversity, is called upon today more than ever to embody the spirit of this day in practice. Political and security conflicts must remain confined to their national context and must never be transformed into ethnic or sectarian conflicts between Arabs and Kurds, Druze and Alawites, or any other components of the unified Syrian people.
The Syrian Future Movement calls on all parties to reject any attempt to transform political differences into identity-based divisions, emphasizing that Syrians—Arabs, Kurds, Druze, Alawites, Christians, and all other components—are children of one nation, united under the umbrella of equal citizenship and shared human dignity. Mutual acceptance is the only way to heal wounds and rebuild trust.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that the future of Syria can only be built on the foundation of a social contract based on the principles of acceptance, respect, and full inclusion for all, including persons with disabilities, who deserve equal opportunities in education, employment, and political and social participation, without stigma or discrimination.
The Syrian Future Movement calls on all Syrians, and their political, religious, and social leaders, to embrace the message of this day as part of our new national identity. Acceptance is not weakness but strength; not concession but moral and human advancement, reflecting our belief that God created us as peoples and tribes to know one another and cooperate, not to fight or reject one another.
The Syrian Future Movement is committed to supporting all efforts aimed at building a unified, tolerant Syria that embraces everyone in one heart, and renews its pledge that acceptance will be a constitutional and cultural principle that prevails in Syrian society during its transitional phase and beyond, so that together we can build a homeland that is proud of its pluralism and cherishes its diversity.
