I had discovered over time that societies and individuals are only as unreceptive to persons with disabilities as they are ignorant. This means that the more awareness is created, the more room people with disabilities get to thrive in the larger society.
Today, as the World celebrates ‘International Day for Persons with Disability’, I’m speaking up for these individuals whom I’ve grown to love.
This is a call for collective action! Whose responsibility is it to ensure the SGDs transcend into our reality whether we are born ‘special’ or acquire a disability through accident, illness, age, or any other way?
In borrowed words, ‘The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to transform our world. They are a call to action to end poverty and inequality, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy health, justice, and prosperity.
Going by the definition above, it is the last line for me. I’m yet to think of anyone who shouldn’t fit into this framework of care. The SDGs simply announce to the world that having autism doesn’t make a person less than another. It also means that a diagnosis of an intellectual disability does not imply that the person is ‘subhuman’.
Why then should persons with disability especially those in Nigeria, struggle to get attention for their ‘right’? Why should benefits that are due them come as privileges?
This year, by the theme of the celebration, WHO is calling for global action to rescue and achieve the SDGs for, with, and by persons with disabilities.
While acknowledging that the SDGs refer to a 17-goal agenda, eight (8) of these goals stood out for me. That is to say, Individuals, organizations, and governments at all levels have the responsibility to support this special class of people we’re celebrating today, ride above poverty. Needless to say, poverty is a devil most differently-abled people grapple with, at least in Nigeria. I would have loved to reel out some form of statistics to support my position but unfortunately, the dearth of data is a bigger devil than the former.
Goal 2 of the SDGs addressed the subject of ‘hunger’. This amongst persons with disability in Nigeria, is a direct consequence of the problem of poverty.
How can we, together, help people with disability promote their health and well-being both mentally and physically?
The 4th goal makes a case for inclusive and equitable quality education, which promotes lifelong learning opportunities for all. Hmmmmmm, did we say we’re practicing the SDGs in Nigeria??? Seriously, it is only through the actualization of this goal that persons with disability can by themselves be on top of their cases!
The situation in our political space speaks volumes about goal 5. We ought to, as a matter of urgency, pursue this goal and give consideration to women and girls with disability!
Similarly, goals 6 to 10 address the important subjects of sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, decent work and economic growth, and of course, reduced inequalities.
I’ll end this tribute to persons with disabilities on their special day by assuring them of my love and commitment to their overall well-being by mobilizing as many as I can, to collectively empower them to achieve the SDGs. Do you care to join me?
Biby Yinkere
Proud Advocate for Special Needs ❤ 💚💙💛