“Thanks for asking” campaign highlights how people with intellectual disabilities are overlooked in everyday life

The NGO Kehitysvammatuki 57 ry’s campaign, “Thanks for asking”, sheds light on everyday situations in which people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are bypassed in conversations and decision-making. The Finnish-language video, released in January 2026, has received more than one million views on social media, as well as tens of thousands of likes and comments. The video is now available with English subtitles.

In the campaign’s short, cinematic video (1:34), we follow Aino, whose life is marked by others speaking on her behalf—at the doctor’s, at the train station, and in meetings with authorities. Aino is often left on the sidelines, even though the matters concern her own life. The final scene shows how a good interaction—a direct question to Aino herself—can change everything. The campaign reminds us that inclusion is created in everyday encounters.

“Unfortunately, the fictional situations in the video are everyday reality for many people with IDD. Everyone has the right to be heard and to be included in their own life, in all of its areas. When we meet one another genuinely and make time for questions and listening, we build trust, responsibility, and the common good”, summarizes Nina Korventaival, CEO of Kehitysvammatuki 57 ry.

The NGO ”Kehitysvammatuki 57 ry” is an advocacy and support association for people with IDD, their families and loved ones. We promote their opportunities to act as equal and full members of society. We’re based in Finland.

Suomenkielinen kampanjatiedote / Original text in finnish

Thanks for Asking campaign video (Youtube)

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