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by Ajith C. S. Perera

The international community no more accepts the (false) belief that 'disability' is a (medical) condition some people develop 'within themselves'. 'Disability' is now seen and accepted the world over as 'A (preventable) state to which people are dragged into by 'Structural and Attitudinal Barriers' in environments where society, disrespects and disregards the physical and sensory (and intellectual) limitations that inextricably get thrust upon them in life.

This is due to (a) Accidents (b) Debilitating Illnesses or (c) Ageing. There is no forgivable reason for ignorance of this fact. Furthermore, these three reasons rapidly increase numbers daily, of an existing 'disabled' population of not less than two million (i.e. - 10%). Who knows, tomorrow it could be you or any of your loved ones, as "fate respects none".

Today we talk with pomp and pageantry about human rights, totally disregarding the fact that this skyrocketing number of our own fellow brothers and sisters, are still being denied of that basic essential legitimate human right - "Freedom of Access" to built physical environments and facilities and services they offer.

Even discussions at all levels are held enthusiastically about the rights and entitlement of 7% of our population living in the Northern province including opportunities for self-determination. Regrettably there is none even to talk sensibly about another 10% of our population living in serve other provinces. They, tagged as 'The Disabled', are productive and resourceful but trapped in a vicious cycle of marginalisation, social exclusion and poverty, in being deprived of opportunities to make effective use of their education, competence and expertise.

Limitations in one's physical mobility could be overcome in using a wheelchair. But "Freedom of Access" continues to be denied due to physical barriers at built environments both in Government and business sectors. These include even prestigious places like the BMICH, SSC International Cricket Stadium, universities.

Vicious results

As a direct result, essential, daily activities that could be attended to independently (even using a wheelchair), such as gainful employment, marketing and shopping, recreation, banking, further education, travel etc., all come to an abrupt end should your mobility gets restricted. The worst is that you suddenly realise you are 'totally dependent' for all these essential daily activities, in spite of the strength in the body and willingness of the mind. Such tragic occurrences multiply dependants, unnecessarily. It then boomerangs on all others, as added 'unwanted' financial and social burdens.

Furthermore, permitting injurious human attitudes and false beliefs make man see only 'rupees and cents' but not the human resource (large numbers still in their youth) - their knowledge, competence, experience and talent - all incalculable in value. They remain untapped with no viable opportunities being afforded by anyone, thereby leading to 'poverty generation' instead of poverty alleviation.

For over a decade, the more vocal among the 'disabled' with 'a good fist', are painstakingly, peacefully and patiently championing the cause of this potentially productive segment of our population. It is one, big, common cry in desperation for solace from this grave injustice, battled commonly by all the wheelchair users, many of the Senior Citizens and also their affected immediate families (another at least a million here). Perhaps because these moves are non-violent and peaceful without any rebels, their grievances has never been addressed effectively by anyone. Even our own constitution and proposed revisions, tragically overlook the 'disabled', as 'functional limitations' are still not valid grounds in Sri Lanka, to win any human rights!

The United Nations also, has repeatedly stressed that the basic essential rights of the 'disabled' require much more comprehensive treatment than in the context of community based rehabilitation and social welfare, (the only two, we regrettably still continue to do) and must include the full range of human rights.

The 'actual do-ers' who produce desired results, are a rare and precious sector in our present society. Decision makers of Sri Lanka and leaders, even of almost all NGOs and known social service organisations, follow the NATO principle - "No Action, Talk Only". They talk to give reasons for not being able to perform and produce the desired results. Their shortsightedness and lackadaisical attitudes, as realised above, have turned 'disability' into a grave social problem and a grievous human rights issue.

Ray of definite hope

At such a time achievements gained within the last 12 months in four essential fields in daily living activities, banking, hotel industry, travel and education (due to voluntary personal efforts), become significant and inspirational. Wheels at last have begun to move. Destructive attitudinal and structural barricades are beginning to break. More and more productive changes to benefit precious lives have started to happen.

The physical environment at the recently opened Commercial Bank's branch at Reid Avenue, makes even a wheelchair user feel "equally able". It has a well designed toilet, a ramp and other facilities tailored for you. Enjoying yourself at this festive season or in accepting an invitation for any function, if the venue is Hotel Taj Samudra and if you are even a wheelchair user, worry no more or fear about your crucial need for toileting. 'Well designed' facility exists there now. For those serious about IT education even as a wheelchair user, the Computer Centre at the Colombo University is the place to remember. It's wheelchair friendly. So are the toilet(s) and the auditorium at the CINEC Campus at Malabe. Necessities often arise, at times suddenly, even for those with restricted mobility and vision, to travel. 'Kangaroo cabs' with a fleet of wagon-type cars, provide even the 'disabled', the desired safety, care and comfort to travel.

The key decision makes of each of these organisations who have voluntarily come forward, realise well their corporate social responsibility and moral commitment to the wider community, especially the marginalised like the wheelchair-bound. Through a meaningful project to overcome physical (and attitudinal) barriers, they have helped us to arrest a grievous problem, at least within their own boundaries. Results they have produced, certainly need recognition, appreciation and encouragement not only by the 'disabled' and their families, but by every fellow citizen, please!

Appeal

The gateway to make the 'disabled' truly productive and full fledged citizens is to provide "opportunities rather than charity". To unlock the potential they possess with a wealth of experience and knowledge. It is also the one and only way for improving their quality of life economically, socially, physically and mentally. This cannot happen until and unless everyone enjoys "freedom of access" to built physical environments, and facilities and services - a legitimate fundamental right everyone must enjoy.

Remember the saying "better late than never", electronic media, particularly the three State-owned and six private sector TV stations, should recognise the utmost importance of this campaign right at this moment, not only for the three million but also for society and the country. The 'disabled' require opportunities and chances a periodically and urgently to create proper awareness and also project a positive image concerning them, to soon achieve greater results. It's the "chance not charity", they ask from you. Anyone to sponsor such a regular TV program, please?

Please, spare a serious thought. Make today that little modification to turn your business establishment, friendly and equally accessible even to those with restricted mobility. Or adjustments could still be made to your already done building plans for the next set of living apartments or supermarket outlets. Or you could even provide that much awaited 'chance' for awareness creating or appropriate gainful employment, based on merit but not on charity.

Plan today with a sense of urgency, to banish barriers around you and welcome them tomorrow. Reap what you now sow - the productive difference you are then certain to make to many a 'forgotten' life and the improved quality it then brings them. "Nothing multiples more, than true kindness given with generosity".

www.Pathmaconstruction.com

www.ceylincoproperties.com

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