Every year we celebrate the heart and soul of our work, our lived experience speakers – known to many as human ‘books’. The Hobart human library is at the core of everything diversity and inclusion that A Fairer World does. We celebrate the ‘books’ by acknowledging the work they have done, and highlight the lasting impact of their openness, resilience, and vulnerability. Their stories inspire change, they ask us to gently reflect on our ways, how we move through the world, how we treat each other, they ask us where our biases lay, and our ingrained assumptions lie.

This year we were fortunate to double bill our celebrations. Recently at the St Lukes wellbeing hub we had the pleasure of hosting a screening of Paul Pritchard’s documentary Larapinta: End to End. Paul is one of the Hobart human libraries most established ‘books’. His documentary shows participants walking the trail, as decision-makers who were actively choosing challenge, discomfort, and uncertainty. By showing these moments honestly the film shows that people with disabilities are capable because they are allowed to struggle, not because they are superhuman. The film challenges the idea that safety always means staying within narrow pre-approved boundaries. It shows how low expectations – not disability – are often the real limiting factor.

Sally, an audience member said post screening, ‘Paul and his companions made great achievements, in their walk. The support crew were amazing and did a wonderful job.
Being Tasmanian, I do recall Paul’s accident with the Totem pole, in the media some years ago. Then what he had achieved after that. I really enjoyed the Larapinta Documentary, scenery was magnificent and very colourful and for those involved, what a wonderful experience to share’.

At A Fairer World, we’re dedicated to building diversity, inclusion, and social justice. Through our various programs, such as the Hobart human library and community outreach initiatives, we strive to dismantle barriers and cultivate empathy and understanding among individuals from all walks of life. The stories of resilience and triumph shared within our Hobart human library, each story serves as a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit.

To read more inspiring stories host a Hobart human library forum.

But our mission doesn’t stop there. We believe in taking action to create tangible change in our communities. That’s why we’re excited to announce the launch of our Hobart human library forum initiative, where schools and workplaces can host their own human library events. By bringing together individuals with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences, these forums provide a platform for dialogue and understanding, fostering a culture of empathy and inclusion.

Interested in hosting a Hobart human library forum at your school or workplace? Contact us to learn more about how you can get involved.

Additionally, you can support our cause by making a donation your contribution enables us to continue our vital work in promoting diversity, inclusion, and social justice. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference in creating a fairer world for all.

Together, we can build a world where everyone feels valued, respected, and included.