White Cane Safety Day: Disability Rights Commission Advocates Inclusiveness
By Chinwe Onuigbo, Awka
Anambra State Disability Rights Commission has called for accessibility and inclusiveness in the society as group joined colleagues in various parts of the world to mark the White Cane Safety Day on October 15, 2023.
Chairman the Commission, Chuks Ezewuzie in a statement released in Awka, the state capital said “we all know that mobility is vital for persons with visual impairments to participate fully in society. However, the lack of designed accessible infrastructure often makes navigation a considerable challenge.
“Our commission is primarily concerned with creating an inclusive society where persons with disabilities can enjoy the same rights and opportunities as others. In line with this, we are appealing to the ministries and agencies, organizations and private individuals to take the necessary steps to ensure that public buildings, roadways, walkways, and pedestrian crossings are accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities as stipulated in section 23 and 26 of Anambra State Disability Rights Law 2018.
“These structures must have ramps, tactile markings, braille signage, and appropriate audio information. Accessible pathways should be marked with distinctive colors that are easy to identify, even for blind and partially sighted persons. Pedestrian crossings must be equipped with auditory signals and stop buttons that are easy to press and hear.
“We also urge the public to be aware of the importance of giving help to persons with visual impairments whenever they encounter them on the pathway or at pedestrian crossings. Everyone must understand that the white cane or guide dog signifies the user’s blindness, and they require extra special help.
“So, let us all work together to create an inclusive and accessible society for persons with disabilities in Anambra State. Remember, accessibility is not a privilege; it is a right,” Ezewuzie stated.
He congratulated his colleagues worldwide and prayed for unity and peace in the world.
