WHEN we talk about developing our economy and communities, we talk about inclusiveness. We talk about ways to bring out the best in our countrymen, young and old, by providing them with opportunities and tools to contribute the best they can to society.
It also means providing the right support system to help individuals overcome barriers that hinder growth and development.
It means talking about issues and challenges that affect the everyday Jane and Joe regardless of their status in society, and it means working together to find the best possible solution for those issues and concerns.
For the marginalised in society, observing special days such as World Mental Health Day and International White Cane Safety Day provide the much-needed platform to raise awareness about issues that affect their lives, issues that affect their ability to contribute as a productive, equal citizen of this country.
Yesterday’s observance of World Mental Health Day and International White Cane Safety Day in the Central Division was a timely reminder of the need to change perceptions about those suffering from mental health illnesses as well as celebrating the achievements of people who are blind or visually impaired.
These two special days are often used as a platform to raise awareness about the obstacles faced by persons suffering from mental health illnesses or those who are visually impaired.
Mental health and its associated illnesses affect a great number of people especially when it involves one’s emotional, psychological and social wellbeing — how we think, feel and act as we cope with life.
It is sometimes difficult for persons suffering from mental health illnesses to talk about their problems for fear of being victimised or stigmatised, and most times it is difficult for people to accept that a loved one maybe suffering from a mental health illness.
Hence, the importance of creating awareness on the issues affecting this sometimes marginalised group of people in our community, who want nothing more than to be loved, accepted and treated no differently than the next person. It brings to the forefront that need to be more understanding towards those who are suffer from mental health illnesses.
For our visually impaired in society, International White Cane Safety Day is not just a day set aside to raise awareness on the rights and welfare of blind persons but the white cane itself has become an important symbol of blindness and tool of independence for people who are blind or visually impaired.
The message two years ago by Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports Iliesa Delana echoes strongly today, challenging communities across the world to focus their commitments on improving access to basic services for the blind and visually-impaired.
And as Mr Delana aptly put two years ago, International White Cane Safety Day is a reminder to every citizen of their duty to care for and accord due respect to the visually-impaired in society.
