Ellwangen's hero of inclusion: Matthias Kümpflein honored with a citizen medal!

Ellwangen's hero of inclusion: Matthias Kümpflein honored with a citizen medal!

Ellwangen, Deutschland - Matthias Kümpflein, a tireless fighter for accessibility and inclusion in Ellwangen, was awarded the Ellwanger Citizens' Medal in silver on Monday in the Speratushaus. The award was presented by Mayor Michael Dambacher and Mayor Volker Grab. Kümpopfein, which is dependent on a wheelchair due to a severe physical disability, has campaigned for the rights and needs of people with disabilities since childhood. In the laudation of Thomas Buchholz, a long -time companion Kümpfepfeins, his life path was recognized in the form of a fairy tale that reflects the challenges and success of his commitment.

Kümpfeprein, 44 years old, lived in a shared apartment in Ellwangen after school, which promoted his independence. For many, it is considered part of the cityscape. He actively participated in the election campaign for the former mayor Karl Hilsenbeck and is a committed member of the integration advisory board, in which he is particularly strong for accessibility in local public transport. One of his remarkable achievements is the successful commitment to an entry -level aid at Ellwanger Bahnhof.

voluntary commitment and social influence

The city of Ellwangen honored Kümpfeprein not only because of his personal biography, but also for his outstanding contribution to the creation of a barrier -free and inclusive city. Such merits have been recognized since the introduction of the citizens' medal in 1999. In addition to friends and acquaintances, members of the Ellwanger municipal council were present at the award ceremony who appreciated Kümpfepfeins contribution to the community.

His commitment has enriched the lives of many people in Ellwangen and ensured that it is a change in consciousness. Among other things, Kümpfein was also actively involved in advising planning rounds for accessibility. The voices of those affected like him are considered essential in the planning of public spaces to ensure comprehensive accessibility.

The context of inclusion in Germany

The struggle for accessibility is an important social issue in Germany. According to Deutschlandfunk , around 7.9 million people with severe disabilities lived in Germany at the end of 2023. The UN Convention on the Rights of Disabilities recognizes the social participation as a human right. Nevertheless, there are many hurdles that make it difficult for people with disabilities to participate in social life.

Inclusion affects not only the quality of life of people with disabilities, but also the economic potential of society as a whole. There is a considerable need to catch up in the implementation of accessibility, not least also in educational and healthcare. The reduction of the special school system is slowly progressing, and the requirements for accessibility in medical practices are still inadequate.

Kümpfepfeins engagement symbolizes the voice of many that fight for a fairer and accessible society. In his function in the integration advisory board, he not only improved the quality of life for himself, but also serves as a guide and inspiration for many others.

Mayor Dambacher got to the point: Kümpfepfeins history will continue, and thus also the ongoing struggle for inclusion and accessibility in Ellwangen.