Rights of the Disabled.

Rights of the Disabled

Introduction

  • Interview with Vernie Koemalo, Provincial Coordinator for Disabled People of South Africa (DPSA), Gauteng.

Constitutional Rights for Disabled People

  • All rights in the Constitution apply to disabled individuals.

  • Vulnerable groups, including disabled people, require specific protection under the Constitution.

  • Problem: Implementation of these rights remains a challenge.

  • INDS Document: Developed to outline challenges and recommend solutions for implementing rights of the disabled.

Limitations in Disability Rights

  • Despite clear documents, the approach to disability rights is often insensitive.

  • Government disability policies stem from the INDS document.

  • Strategic planning needs to better accommodate disability integration, especially in employment.

  • Concerns: Employment often based on meeting equity quotas rather than utilizing actual expertise.

  • Inadequate accommodations in workplaces (e.g., accessibility issues).

Definitions of Disability

  • Contextual definitions: Definitions vary by institution (e.g., UN, Social Department, businesses).

  • National definition based on Technical Assistance guidelines.

  • Standard rights apply to all levels of disability.

Driving and Mobility Inclusivity

  • No laws limit disabled individuals from driving.

  • Barriers exist mainly due to poor implementation of rights, not legal restrictions.

  • Role of businesses and government is crucial in making society more accessible.

Daily Challenges Faced by Disabled People

Societal Attitudes

  • Major issue: negative stigma and attitudes towards disabled individuals.

  • Society often perceives successful disabled individuals as exceptions, rather than normalizing their achievements.

  • DPSA’s View: The limitations arise more from societal perceptions than from disabilities themselves.

Accessibility in Building Design

  • Laws exist for universal design ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities.

  • Building Regulations Act mandates accessible construction.

Enforcement of Disabled Parking

  • Current enforcement on illegal parking in disabled spaces is inconsistent across different regions.

  • Cape Town has reasonable enforcement, while Johannesburg lacks strict measures.

Respect and Equality in Interactions

Interaction with Disabled Individuals

  • Emphasis on treating disabled individuals as equals, regardless of their disabilities.

  • Stigma around disability must be dismantled to foster inclusivity.

Government and Societal Responsibilities

  • Government needs to lead by example regarding the implementation of laws and employment for disabled individuals.

  • Acknowledgement of the underachievement of government targets for disability employment (2% goal vs. current 0.6%).

The Role of Disabled People South Africa (DPSA)

Introduction to DPSA

  • DPSA is recognized as the national assembly of disabled individuals in South Africa.

  • Associated with Disabled People International, holding observer status at the UN.

  • Functions as an advocate and lobbying body for the rights of disabled individuals.

  • Focus on leadership development rather than merely service provision (e.g., wheelchairs).

Key Focus Areas

  • Development of disabled women, youth, and independent groups of disabled children.

Challenges Facing DPSA

  • Funding: Main challenge hindering program continuation.

  • Commitment to employing people with disabilities and promoting their ability to lead in various spheres of society.

  • Slogan: "Nothing About Us Without Us" highlights the importance of inclusion.