Changing the direction of the wind can be a daunting task but there’s always an option to change the sail and point it to your direction instead, right?
Every time I walk in the buzzy streets of Nairobi, I’m reminded of being the captain of my life by the hundreds of people running up and down with the aim of earning their daily bread. Out of these people are the Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and trust me with all the buzziness of the city, it is impossible to miss them.
PWDs have occupied their spaces. They’re contributing to the economy through their businesses- going at it hard.
However, even with the convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities ratified by 168 countries over time, there has been both progress and stubborn impediments.
There are many challenges and non-inclusion when it comes to accessibility and discrimination. Disability discrimination is treating others less well and putting them at a disadvantage for reasons relating to their disability.
We MUST put a lot into consideration for PWDs By:
- Guaranteeing the right to quality education at all levels for Persons with disabilities.
- Addressing the rights of Persons with disabilities to work in an open, inclusive and accessible environment.
- Ensure Persons with disabilities have the right to the highest possible standard of health without discrimination.
- Innovation: With the constant rise of innovative products hitting the market, I feel there needs to be inclusion of Persons with Disabilities.
- We should not to victimize Persons with disabilities or assume they see their disability as a tragedy. They do not. Do not underestimate the abilities of PWDs.
Majority of PWDs are out there fearlessly influencing their communities. If you check out some of the feature stories I have written on a couple of indomitable young fearless Africans with disability, you’ll just be amazed.
- It is bad manners to assume that everyone you meet needs you as their hero. Always ask if someone needs your assistance before providing it. Don’t try to accommodate every last need of PWDs in attempts to be respectful. I know, I know- society has taught us otherwise but, nevertheless, the better choice is to simply and courteously ask if your help is welcome.
Be in the know and check out the Equality Act in your country in regards to Persons with Disabilities and engage if need be.
