Disability issues to take the spotlight
The annual observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 each year aims to promote an understanding of disability issues, the rights of people living with disabilities and gains to be derived from the integration of people with disabilities in every aspect of the political, social, economic and cultural life of their communities.
POLOKWANE – The annual observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 each year aims to promote an understanding of disability issues, the rights of people living with disabilities and gains to be derived from the integration of people with disabilities in every aspect of the political, social, economic and cultural life of their communities.
These were the words of Dr Sibho Kabane, the head of department at the department of social development delivered by Desmond Mahopo, the department’s senior manager of strategic planning and communications at the build-up function to this day, which was held on Thursday.
Mahopo said the day provided an opportunity to mobilise action to achieve the goal of the full and equal enjoyment of human rights and participation in society by people with disabilities.
The Day of Persons with Disabilities was established by the world programme of action concerning disabled persons, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1982.
“This is a time to make a renewed commitment and ensure implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities,” said Mahopo.
“All human beings are not only entitled to rights, but also have the responsibility of making universal human rights a reality for all of us.”
The Day of Persons with Disabilities is meant to draw awareness to people living with disabilities and the challenges they are faced with in their everyday lives. “Even where disability laws are in place, its effectiveness can be held back by negative attitudes towards disabled people,” said Mahopo.
In South Africa, the period between November 3 and December 3 has been declared Disability Rights Awareness Month by government.
“A major focus of this month is awareness through practical action in order to sensitise citizens about the norms and standards that guide processes that aim to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities,” explained Mahopo.
The Bill of Rights, enshrined in the South African Constitution, gave every person, including people with disabilities, rights that must be protected at all times.
Mahopo said the department of social development was working towards the mainstreaming and integration of programmes aimed at creating a better life for people with disabilities. “Legislation alone will not ensure people with disabilities can enjoy their human rights. Initiatives such as our departmental Disability Day serve to create awareness under employees.
“The department of social development joins the world in recognising and embracing this month as important for people with disabilities and those that live among them,” he said.
