Respect all people with disabilities, says commission

FOLLOWING the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) this week, the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) said it is standing together with millions of people with all forms of disabilities in South Africa, across the continent and worldwide to embrace common humanity in commemorating this day.

The theme for this year is “The future is accessible” and accordingly, the commission recognises the inherent qualities of humanity in all persons with disabilities such as equality, freedom of movement, justice, peace and the pursuit of happiness for self and within our families and communities.

The IDPD could not be a more appropriate day to challenge us as a nation to demonstrate our commitments to the democratic values and fundamental human rights, said Javu Baloyi of the CGE. The CGE therefore, calls upon fellow South Africans to respect people with disabilities, include them at all levels in our communities and promote inclusion in the economic, social, educational, religious or leisure activities.

“The commission’s employment equity public investigative hearings in both private and public sectors have identified that both sectors are lagging behind in achieving the required 2% recognised in the South African legal framework that affirms people with disabilities.

“Women with disabilities are further marginalised.

“Persons with disabilities bear the brunt of intimate partner violence, sexual assault and financial abuse and many are unable to report or access services due to their vulnerabilities,” said Baloyi.

The commission has therefore called upon all state institutions, including government and government agencies, the private sector, civil society, leadership in our community structures, political parties and churches to integrate, promote and protect the rights of people with disabilities. |