Skip to main content

Call Us by Our Names, Not Our Disabilities: Advocates Demand Respect and Inclusion

 “We are tired of being called by our disabilities instead of our names.” 

This was the rallying cry at a community meeting organized by the Trust Foundation for Persons with Disabilities, where advocates and individuals shared their experiences of discrimination and called for respect and inclusion. 

 Rita Simulumba, a passionate advocate, highlighted the dehumanizing language often directed at persons with disabilities. 

“Even when people know your name, they choose to call you by your disability. 

This is disrespectful and unacceptable,” she said.

 Simulumba urged attendees to report such behavior to the authorities.

 “We have had enough. It’s time to stand up for ourselves and demand to be treated with dignity.” 

 The call for respect resonated throughout the meeting, with Rita Makoye emphasizing the importance of inclusion. 

“Disability does not mean inability. We want society to see us for our abilities and contributions, not our limitations. Respect begins with recognizing us as individuals,” she said. 

The event also shed light on the broader challenges faced by persons with disabilities.

Dorothy Velemu, Executive Director of the Trust Foundation, highlighted the organization’s efforts to empower individuals through cooperatives.

 “We are here to break the stigma and show that persons with disabilities can thrive. 

Mujala Cooperative is one of our success stories, securing K32,000 in funding.

 We are expanding our cooperatives to help more youths benefit from the Constituency Development Fund,” Velemu said.  

However, systemic issues persist. Friday Nachihyango recounted his struggles with law enforcement, alleging corruption and lack of support. 

“I reported being duped, but instead of helping, the police demanded a bribe. Even with resources like a CDF vehicle, they are failing us,” he said. 

 Businesswoman and philanthropist Mwangala Sililo brought a message of hope, distributing stationery to Grade 8 and 9 students.

 “Education is the key to breaking barriers. We want to support your journey and remind you that your potential is limitless,” she said. 

 Shungu Ward Councillor Samson Kandala reinforced the importance of unity and equality.

 “We are one Zambia, one nation. Everyone has value, and no one should feel left out. The president’s vision for unity includes all of us, regardless of ability,” he said. 

 The meeting concluded with a renewed determination to challenge stigma and discrimination, starting with something as simple yet powerful as calling people by their names. 

As the participants emphasized, respect and inclusion are not optional – they are fundamental rights. 

 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Zambia is not a dumping ground for dental amalgam

Livingstone University Teaching Hospital’s dental surgeon, Dr. Robin Mwewa, has raised critical concerns about the dangers of mercury in dental amalgam fillings.  Speaking at a recent health forum, Dr. Mwewa detailed the adverse effects of mercury on human health and the environment, urging for greater awareness and action.   Mercury, a key component in dental amalgam, has been used globally for over a century to treat cavities.  Its introduction in dentistry originated in Europe, with countries like France and Britain pioneering its application.  However, the long-term consequences of mercury exposure were not understood until much later.   Health Risks Associated with Mercury Exposure Dr. Mwewa highlighted several health complications linked to mercury exposure from dental amalgam fillings:   1. Tremors: Mercury can cause involuntary muscle contractions, commonly affecting the legs.   2.  Emotional Instability: Excessive merc...
Post a Comment
Read more

Mara Moyo, a devoted daughter and extraordinary caregiver

  CHALI MULENGA  Livingstone Mara Moyo, a devoted daughter and extraordinary caregiver, has captured the hearts of many with her selfless commitment to her father's care. Her inspiring story of sacrifice and love sheds light on the profound impact of familial dedication and service to others. Mara, now 31, recounts her upbringing in Livingstone, Zambia, under the influence of her father, Joseph Moyo, a beacon of compassion and service. "I grew up seeing a father who gave his all for the benefit of others. I just wanted to be like him," she recalls. Mara's father dedicated his life to uplifting vulnerable members of society, from street children to sex workers, leaving an indelible mark on Mara's values and aspirations. Despite attending Nalituwe Primary School and David Livingstone High School, Mara's educational journey was intrinsically shaped by her father's impactful legacy rather than formal schooling. Mara fondly reminisces, "The foundation of m...
Post a Comment
Read more

Gender-Based Violence Sparks Divorce: Woman Sues Husband for Endangering Her Life

  After enduring gender-based violence in her marriage, a 38-year-old woman has chosen to file for divorce as her life is endangered by her 42-year-old husband. Eunice Hachikola sued Victor Namushi for divorce due to the persistent conflicts in their marriage. Hachikola stated that they married in 2003, with Namushi paying the full dowry of K3500. They have four children together. The marital issues began in 2008, exacerbated by their reliance on farming for livelihood. Hachikola asserted that Namushi sells their farm produce without her consent and fails to provide for the family. She detailed instances of physical abuse, expressing fear for her life, citing a severe beating that nearly proved fatal. Despite owning livestock, Namushi fails to utilize their benefits for the family's welfare. Hachikola, fearing for her safety, reported the matter to the headman, eschewing involving her uncle due to the severity of the abuse. She emphasized the necessity of divorce to escape the peri...
Post a Comment
Read more