Gyumri has unveiled its first “Wall of Inclusion,” a public art initiative composed of 70 ceramic tiles featuring pre-collected messages and appeals promoting equality, human rights, and inclusiveness.
The tiles were installed by people with disabilities alongside representatives from state institutions, education, culture, and civil society, symbolizing a shared commitment to advancing inclusion and equal opportunities across the community.
The initiative was implemented by the “Agate” Center for the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities NGO.
According to the organization’s president, Karine Grigoryan, the decision to locate the wall in one of Gyumri’s suburban districts was intentional, highlighting the importance of ensuring that inclusiveness reaches all communities rather than being concentrated solely in the city center.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Grigoryan noted that the wall challenges persistent stereotypes about people with disabilities and demonstrates that inclusion is also associated with creativity, joy, and social change. She emphasized that the project represents another step in Agat’s long-term efforts—spanning nearly 18 years—to promote disability rights through tangible actions.
The Wall of Inclusion is bilingual, featuring Armenian and English inscriptions, and also includes tiles with expressions in sign language. In addition, individual tiles in German, Georgian, and Moldovan were placed by representatives of non-governmental organizations from Germany, Georgia, and Moldova, who were visiting Armenia to exchange experience and explore opportunities for regional cooperation on disability rights.
The initiative is part of the “Together for Inclusion” project. Similar awareness-raising campaigns are planned in Georgia and Moldova to highlight the potential and contributions of people with disabilities.