According to the Ministry of Welfare, the Step into Another’s Shoes social campaign is expanding across 11 European Union member states to promote inclusive attitudes toward people with functional and mental health disabilities. First launched in Latvia in 2023 as “Dažādo kurpju diena,” the initiative asks participants to wear mismatched shoes on September 25 to symbolize empathy and the acceptance of human uniqueness.
Expanding Transnational Cooperation Across Europe
The campaign has evolved from a national awareness day into a broader transnational cooperation initiative for a social Europe, officially titled “Step into Another’s Shoes.” According to ministry records, 11 EU member states have confirmed participation: Poland, Belgium, Slovenia, Ireland, France, Spain, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Portugal, Austria, and Hungary. This coalition aims to unite member states in fostering inclusive communities and highlighting projects financed through European Union funds.
Shifting From Sympathy to Long-Term Inclusion
While early iterations of the campaign focused primarily on perspective-taking, the 2026 framework introduces a direct new motto: “Step into Another’s Shoes. Let’s move forward together.” Ministry organizers emphasize that symbolic empathy alone is insufficient for systemic change. True inclusion occurs when individuals with disabilities are accepted in daily life as colleagues, classmates, neighbors, and equal community members. This long-term vision supports the ongoing development of community-based social services, known as deinstitutionalization, backed by European Social Fund resources.
Nationwide Hybrid Events and Live Broadcasts
The campaign culminates on September 25 with public events held simultaneously from 12:00 to 14:00 across five regions in Latvia. According to event planners, the central gathering takes place in Riga at Āgenskalna tirgus, featuring musician Kaspars Markševics, singer Māra Upmane-Holšteine, and the Riga Silver-White Choir. Parallel regional events will run in Smiltene, Jelgava, Kuldīga, and Preiļi. Māra Upmane-Holšteine notes that while mismatched shoes offer a lighthearted entry point, the ultimate goal remains the genuine acceptance of human diversity. All five locations will connect via live broadcasts on the Ministry of Welfare’s social media channels, showcasing inspirational personal stories, musical performances, and exhibitions highlighting individual talents.
How Individuals and Organizations Can Participate
Participation is open to any individual, group, or organization wishing to support the cause. According to campaign guidelines, supporters can follow these steps on September 25:
- Put on mismatched shoes, such as one casual shoe and one athletic sneaker.
- Take a photograph of the mismatched footwear.
- Share the photo on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and X.
- Include the official campaign hashtag #IekāpOtraKurpēs.
- Encourage colleagues, friends, and family members to join the initiative.
Additional details regarding event schedules and regional locations are available on the official website at cilveksnevisdiagnoze.lv.
Financing Community-Based Social Services
Latvia has systematically developed community-based social services for deinstitutionalization target groups since 2016 with support from the European Social Fund. Under the 2021–2027 EU funds planning period, the country continues expanding service availability. According to ministry data, authorities plan to launch at least 20 additional projects by the end of 2026, increasing access to specialized support for a minimum of 2,635 individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Step into Another’s Shoes campaign take place?
The primary campaign events and national participation day occur annually on September 25.
What is the main objective of wearing mismatched shoes?
Wearing different shoes serves as a symbolic gesture to foster understanding, empathy, and acceptance of people with functional and mental health disabilities.
Which countries participate in the European initiative?
Participating nations include Poland, Belgium, Slovenia, Ireland, France, Spain, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Portugal, Austria, and Hungary.
Where can I watch the live events if I cannot attend in person?
Live streams of the central event in Riga and regional gatherings will broadcast across the Ministry of Welfare’s official social media accounts.
Get Involved in the Movement
Building an inclusive society starts with everyday actions and open conversations. Share your mismatched shoe photos on September 25 using the hashtag #IekāpOtraKurpēs to raise awareness in your local community. Explore more articles on our website to stay informed about social development initiatives, or subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates on community-based support services.
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