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.