The call for disability awareness in October

OCTOBER marks a significant moment of reflection and responsibility in South Africa's journey towards greater inclusion.

- SIHLE SIPHOSETHU

While South Africa officially observes National Disability Rights Awareness Month from November 3 to December 3, ACTIVATE! Change Drivers has chosen to begin this conversation early through its A! Diversity campaign.

The campaign dedicates October to deepening awareness, challenging stereotypes, and placing people living with disabilities at the centre of social participation. The campaign arrives at a time when inclusion cannot remain an abstract value.

According to Statistics South Africa’s 2024 report, approximately 6%of the national population lives with a form of disability. Behind that figure are individuals whose daily experiences are reshaped by physical and social barriers.

These barriers limit not only access to buildings or education. They limit dignity, opportunity, and full citizenship.

Disability and South African law

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa enshrines human dignity, equality, and freedom from discrimination as foundational principles. Section 9 of the Constitution recognises disability as a ground on which unfair discrimination may not take place. Section 10 goes further and affirms the inherent dignity of every person.