Can people with a disability have children, have sex or fall in love?
CBM Australia has launched a video called Make Your Attitude Count to address the preconceived ideas and myths about disabilities, to celebrate International Day of Persons with a Disability next Wednesday.
The international development organisation, which is committed to improving the quality of life for people with disabilities in the poorest communities of the world, produced the video to highlight the stigmas attached to people’s disabilities.
In the video, people with disabilities from all around the world talk about the discrimination they face every day, such as questions regarding their sexuality and emotions.
They share success stories, like learning how to read and write in braille. They say they want to study and work and be treated like everyone else.
“People need to realise that it’s not our disability, it’s our ability that counts,” said one of the video’s stars.
“Often the most difficult barriers to overcome are not actually the disability, but it’s peoples negative attitudes towards disability,” Australian performance poet Stevie Wills said.
The International Day of People with Disability aims to raise awareness by promoting an understanding of disabled people, and encourages support for their rights and wellbeing. The day is celebrated each year on December 3. One billion people in the world have a disability.
“We need to ensure people with a disability are included in all aspects of our development efforts,” said acting CEO of CBM Australia Jane Edge.
– Lauren Yeates
Top photo from Clément’s Flickr photostream.
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