Thiruvananthapuram comes together for ‘Walk for Inclusion’

People with disabilities are often sidelined in the society. Even today, in spite of strong laws, disabled people face discrimination and marginalization across the country. It is high time society awakens and reaches out to people with all kinds of disabilities. The Walk for Inclusion that was held at the Kerala state capital in Thiruvananthapuram did just that. People with and without disabilities participated in the walk that was held on 22 February.

‘Walk for Inclusion’ was organized by the NGO Jyothirgamaya Foundation that empowers blind people. The event was done in collaboration with Yagna Dhruva’19, the inter-collegiate techno-cultural fest hosted by LBS Institute of Technology for Women along with Sahridhaya, an organization that works for equality and social change.

An inclusive flash mob was also held which will later followed by an inclusive walk towards the famous Kanakakunnu Palace.

Tiffany Brar is the founder of Jyothirgamaya Foundation that is based out of Thiruvananthapuram. Brar says that the walk was organized so that youngsters could also participate and become aware of disabilities.

It is high time that people become aware of what accessibility is. Even a disabled person is unaware of their own rights. For that, youngsters around us must step up and do their bit. Going to college and having fun is fine. But they have a potential beyond that. They can do so many things to promote awareness about disabilities in the society. In fact, it is their social responsibility to speak up for such causes. Disabled people must be able to cross the road alone, walk on our roads without worrying about falling inside potholes and do things independently. People with and without disabilities must join hands for the right causes. See our capabilities and not our disabilities-Tiffany Brar, Founder, Jyothirgamaya Foundation

The government of Kerala has always promoted and stood up for inclusion. Organizers hope that this ‘Walk for inclusion’ has brought the cause to notice of government authorities.

Sobha Vishwanath is the Founder of Weavers Village. Vishwanath was a part of the walk which she believes was for a cause that needs immediate attention.

“Take a look at the new currencies that have been introduced after demonetization. They are not accessible for blind people. Currencies are something basic that we use in our day to day lives. It is high time that accessible notes for blind people are introduced. Similarly, people with all kinds of disabilities face discrimination in all fields, be it education or employment. People consider them to be weak. There are very few people who are strong and come out to the forefront to raise their voices against injustices. I admire Tiffany for that. She has always been vocal about issues faced by disabled people”, says Vishwanath.

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