By Nadeya Hussain –
Every 3rd of December, the International Day of Disabled Persons is celebrated. This day aims to promote the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities in all spheres of society.
This recognition day demonstrates that any person with a disability is accepted and respected as an important part of society.
Disability is not a disadvantage; it is a form of diversity. There is often a misconception among people with visible disabilities that they are less capable or incompetent, resulting in inequalities in many aspects of life for them.
We should focus on and support their many other outstanding qualities and abilities.
This year’s theme is ‘Fighting for Rights in the Post-COVID Era’, which celebrates the challenges, barriers and opportunities for people who live with disabilities, in the context of a global pandemic.
Not all disabilities are visible
For this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the goal is to spread awareness of invisible disabilities and the impact COVID-19 has had on mental health.
Despite our familiarity with visible disabilities, we should remember that invisible disabilities also exist.
Some examples are conditions such as anxiety (approximately eight million people in the UK), depression, autism and ADHD, chronic autoimmune conditions, etc.
According to Government statistics, over 11 million people in the United Kingdom live with a disability. The UK’s number of ‘hidden’ disabilities reaches as high as 70%.
It is essential to be aware of this statistic to show the severity of the situation and help educate us and better understand another critical argument.
While there is discrimination against people with visible disabilities, it is also common to discriminate against those with hidden disabilities.
For instance, someone could accuse you of lying about your disability since it is not immediately apparent. A person who does not use a wheelchair but uses an accessible toilet may encounter uncomfortable contact.
Considering this, we should stop and think before making judgments and assumptions. People are often not what they appear, no matter how they look. Instead, we should create a community where everyone is welcome regardless of their differences.