Society stands against discrimination
KwaZulu-Natal Blind and Deaf Society fights for the rights of blind people and blind people with guide dogs.
THE KZN Blind and Deaf Society has called on the blind who are not allowed into buildings with their guide dogs to contact them urgently.
This comes after a blind woman was not allowed to enter the Department of Homes Affairs building in Western Cape with her guide dog.
Speaking about the incident, Denika Pillay, public relations officer from the KZN Blind and Deaf Society, said the attitude of the Home Affairs Department was not only immoral, but disgusting.
“We have learnt with great joy of the decision of the High Court in Western Cape to saying that the Department was wrong in doing this. It is dreadful that in this modern day and age, government departments do not ensure that people with disabilities are catered for adequately to serve their needs. In fact the Constitution expects them do so,” she said.
ALSO READ: Durban councillor demands better service delivery
Pillay said that as an organisation that serves the needs of all blind and deaf people in the region, the organisation was disappointed that an individual had to be subjected to such an undignified experience.
“Guide dogs serve as valuable assistants to blind people. Incidents of this kind leaves one feeling disappointed and excluded from a government that is elected by the people. We appeal to all people to be aware of this and not to be prejudiced against blind people and their guide dogs. We ask all blind people to contact us urgently if any government department in KwaZulu-Natal does not allow them into buildings with their guide dogs. We will take action immediately. We truly hope this will not be necessary,” she said.
Contact the organisation on 031 309 4991 or email: director@bdskzn.org.za.
“We need to ensure that the rights of these human beings will never again be abused,” she said.
Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 060 532 5535.
You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have signed up for our news alerts you need to save the Berea Mail WhatsApp number as a contact to your phone, otherwise you will not receive our alerts
