Jacob Hembrom
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Dec. 03, reminds us all to consider them with human respect, give them due importance, be sensitive to their needs, raise awareness, and to promote their human rights.
Disability is complex, dynamic, and multi-dimensional. Persons with disabilities face numerous barriers that restrict their full and effective participation in society. There is rising inequality with regard to their access to basic services such as educational opportunities.
Negative attitude towards disability can result in negative responses to people with disabilities. For example, children bullying other children with disabilities in schools, bus drivers failing to help with the needs of passengers with disabilities, strangers mocking people them, employers disc criminating against them etc. Negative attitudes can have adverse effect on children and adults with disabilities, leading to negative consequences such as low self-esteem and reduced participation.
We need to change our perspective with increased sensitivity towards them. They too need to enjoy rights and freedom we enjoy. Let us give the attention the need. Let us allow them to experience a secure life.