People living with blindness also have rights
People living with blindness speak out about their rights and the unfair treatment they receive from people.
eMBALENHLE – Khuthala Association for the Blind intends to deal with the stigma and myths surrounding blindness.
Ms Betty Mahlangu-Mofokeng, chairman, said some people think blindness is a curse or punishment from God.
She said this results in families hiding and feeling ashamed of their relatives living with blindness.
The People Living with Visual Impairment Awareness Campaign was held at the House of Praise Tabernacle Church on Wednesday, 15 October.
“The association is conducting various campaigns, especially at schools, because pupils used to bully us when we were in public places.
“We educate them about problems we face and empower them with knowledge.
“We are succeeding in doing that, because bit by bit our youth are understanding and supporting us.”
Past Solly Mahlangu encouraged the attendees by quoting from John 9:3 and said living with blindness is not a curse, but shows and proves the greatness of God.
He said God has given his people talents and everybody, including those living with blindness, has the potential to become what God intended them to be.
Giving the key note address, Ms Ivy Phiri, representative of the National Council for the Blind, said people living with any disabilities have rights and they deserve to be treated equally to those who do not have disabilities.
She said the National Council for the Blind advocates the rights for the blind and ask people who are related to anyone living with blindness, to not hide them, but to allow them to live their lives.
People also took part in a fun walk on the day.
