On November 29, 2022, the awarding ceremony for the contest “Equality” winners was held at the premises of the “Koka Riga”. The honors were handed to the authors of the sixty best works, and the authors of the best nine works were also rewarded with money awards of up to €1,000.
The competition aimed to invite young people to think about what constitutes an inclusive society and to encourage them to see and understand the diversity of people alongside them – their value, their right to happiness, dignity, and equal life. Pupils could choose from three topics: “People with mental disabilities”, “Children with functional disabilities” or “Children who live or have lived in institutional out-of-family care”.
The response was impressive: 369 originals and interesting works were submitted, carefully evaluated by a professional adult and youth panel composed of representatives from both the Ministry of Welfare and non-governmental organizations, social services providers, and communications and media.
“The great interest is a really pleasant surprise, as it shows that Latvian youth care about fellow people and an inclusive society with equal opportunities for all,” – said Welfare Minister Gatis Eglitis.
"The works submitted by young people are very original, sincere and thought-provoking, so it was not easy for the jury to choose the winners. I am glad that Latvian society and the future are being shaped by such talented and creative young people," - depudy secretary of state for Minisatry of Welfare and jury member Elīna Celmiņa.
“One of the mottos of the European Union is “United in Diversity” and this contest shows that these are not only words but also works,” notes Andris Kužnieks, head of the European Commission's policy department in Latvia.
The Ministry of Welfare expresses its thanks to all participants, their parents, panel members, the European Commission's representation in Latvia, fans, and special thanks to school teachers who encouraged their students to participate in the creative contest.
