International Albinism Awareness Day – 13 June

Image Source: albinism.org

International Albinism Awareness Day

Albinism is a disease that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Albinism is characterized by the non-existence of pigment (melanin) in the skin, hair, and eyes, making the person vulnerable to the sun and strong light.

As a result, practically everyone with albinism is visually impaired and at risk for skin cancer. There is no therapy or cure for albinism, which is caused by a lack of melanin.

Discrimination and, in some cases, violence are common experiences for people with this illness. The United Nations declared June 13 to be International Albinism Awareness Day to show unity with those who suffer from this condition and stand up to the bullies who have been harassing them.

This memorial is extremely important in the lives of those who suffer from the disease and their family. It’s impossible to overlook the campaigners working to eradicate the daily discrimination that albinos experience.

History

When over 70 persons with albinism were killed, and many more were injured in 2015, the Tanzania Albinism Society (TAS) and other NGOs advocated for their rights. As a result, the inaugural Albino Day was observed on May 4, 2006.

On June 13, 2013, the United Nations Human Rights Council issued the first resolution on albinism. The Human Rights Council suggested that June 13 be designated as International Albinism Awareness Day in its decision 26/10 of June 26, 2014.

On December 18, 2014, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution designating June 13 as International Albinism Awareness Day, which will affect 2015.

International Albinism Awareness Day’s theme is:

This year’s theme is “Made To Shine,” to celebrate the accomplishments and achievements of persons with albinism all across the world. It’s also a call to stand with people who have albinism as they face their problems.

Today, we must join with albino people in their quest for a life free of discrimination, fear, stigma, and violence—a world in which they are valued for who they are.

International Albinism Awareness Day’s Importance

International Albinism Knowledge Day is important for raising awareness about albinism and ending violence and discrimination against albinism sufferers. Albinism is an uncommon, non-contagious disorder in which the eyes, skin, and hair lack melanin, making them sensitive to sunlight.

As a result, people with albinism may experience vision problems and are more likely to develop skin cancer. Albinism is defined by a lack of melanin, for which there is now no therapy.

Celebrations for International Albinism Awareness Day

Albinism affects one in every 17000-20000 persons in Europe and North America, but just one in every 1400 persons in Tanzania. Although the number varies by country, the sufferings of persons with albinism remain the same.

This is a theme-based event, with a new theme chosen each year to commemorate the day and raise awareness. “Made to Shine” is the theme for this year. This theme will allow us to recognize the accomplishments and successes of persons who have albinism and have overcome obstacles to attain success. It is also a day to show solidarity with those who are albino.

It is very important to understand that having a disease is not in someone’s hands, hence we should blame the other person due to any disease he or she has.

Rather, we must be more emphatic towards that person and not do something which would do more harm than good. Hence, this is the reason why such important days such as International Albinism Awareness Day get celebrated.

In the past, there have been a plethora of individuals who have accomplished so much in the past, even with this situation, and haven’t left a single stone unturned in showcasing their talent in the best way possible.

Hence, it is important to celebrate those individuals regularly and not discriminate against them on any basis ever. Immediate actions should be taken against people who get into such malpractices which is extremely a big no.