The CLL|UCEDD and Oklahoma LEND faculty and staff recently attended and presented at the 41st Annual Pacific Rim International Conference on Disability, hosted by the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa under the theme, Unbreakable Threads: Communities of Resilience and Continuity. The conference brought together advocates, researchers, professionals, and community members from across the United States and other countries including Japan, Indonesia, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. During the conference, Dr. Ami Bax, Dr. Megan Roberts, Miranda Hooper, and Gale Hann co-presented Emergency Preparedness for All: Building Systems to Support Safety and Well-Being in Our Communities, a session focused on improving accessibility and opportunity in emergency preparedness and response systems for people with disabilities. The experience provided valuable opportunities to learn from other perspectives, exchange ideas, and build meaningful professional connections that reinforced the importance of global partnerships and shared learning.
The Shaka sign, a hand gesture made by extending the thumb and pinky finger, is a widely recognized symbol of aloha, friendship, and goodwill in Hawai’i. Its origins are often linked to Hawaiian resident Hamana Kalili, who lost his three middle fingers in a workplace accident and used the distinctive gesture to signal trains. His acquired disability, now known as the Shaka, represents connection and community and reflects the welcoming spirit that brought together conference participants from participating countries.
Read more at our newsletter: focus facts