Today is World Albinism Awareness Day. Every year on June 13, this day recognises the human rights of those living with albinism.
Albinism is an uncommon, non-contagious, genetically inherited health disorder characterised by a lack of melanin in the skin, eyes, and hair, making people affected sensitive to sunlight and strong light. People who have this significant disparity in pigmentation are also at risk of developing skin cancer. In reality, many people experience persistent vision impairments as a result of a lack of melanin in their eyes. Albinism is not communicable, yet it has numerous negative connotations.
People with albinism endure significant prejudice as a result of a lack of information of the condition, which leads to marginalisation and social isolation.
The United Nations Human Rights Council passed a resolution in 2013 to increase awareness. Within a year (in 2014), the United Nations General Assembly recognised June 13 as International Albinism Awareness Day, effective in 2015.
The topic for this year is “United in making our voices heard.” The subject is crucial for ensuring equality, according to the United Nations. The UN plans to honour those who suffer from the disease and to make their voices heard in order to ensure that people all over the globe understand what Albinism is and to avoid prejudice and violence against those who suffer from it. The subject also attempts to raise awareness of various albinism groups throughout the world.
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