1.4 Unhelpful Attitudes
Cultural beliefs, myths and religious superstition
Daniel lamented over the negative attitudes of some in the African society who believe that children with special needs and disabilities were, that way as a result of ancestral curses, demonic plagues and omens. Further, that children who were not predisposed to having special needs or disabilities would be susceptible to catching the special needs and disability contagion in mainstream classrooms.
Field research conducted by The Division for Social Policy Development (DSPD) and The Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) revealed that in several African States there exists, among the people, a lack of understanding regarding disability. The lack of awareness surrounding the cause of disabilities have led to numerous misconceptions. Irresponsible media coverage has helped to sustain such beliefs and irrational policy and laws have also been used to support the cultural beliefs, myths and superstitions. Such negative thinking have over the years fueled societal prejudice, discrimination, and unfounded fear.
Theological, sociocultural, and legislative policy reform is needed for combating and holding society accountable for negative attitudes and actions towards persons with special needs and disabilities.
As a child, I remember a congregational member who became blind as a result of polio and who also used a wheel chair. I also remember said member answering questions that were informative and value-laden. He was always treated with respect and applauded for his memory, communication skills and the wealth of spiritual and general knowledge that he possessed. Of course children would have asked their parents questions, but I do not recall him being discriminated against, or excluded from social gatherings. What I do remember is the genuine love and support that was meted out by everyone in our congregation.
Thank you June for sharing that childhood memory. Inclusive education is the only way to eliminate some of these widespread African myths.
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June you have captured the suffering people with disability go through in Africa and some other parts of the world. You have also given a live example of how they could be included from your own observed incident. That is the way i wish Africa and all those other continents who give the people with disability extra burden could go.That way they would exploit their full potential and contribute to national development.
There is also a feeling that there is nothing people with disability can do. You see them on the streets begging accompanied by a 'abled' person to support them as they beg, usually a child. It is all sickening when we know that both could be included in working constructively decently to cater for their needs.
There should be complete change of attitude, sensitization and policy to sort this mess.
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True. There are some attitudes toward those with disabilities are not helpful. Such attitudes for example are where even parents deny that their children have a challenge and therefore prevent them from recieving the necessary support. I have witnessed cases where parents refuse to work with the school staff to support children and create a supportive home by denying that their childen could do with a little bit more help. It is therefore true that the influence of an inclusive school extends beyond the physical buildings of a school.
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June that sharing is truly moving and shows how insensitive the society, culture and beliefs attempt to 'write off' those with disabilities. I like the narration that the physical disability( no vision) was overshadowed by vast divine and natural endowments upon the congregat. It is satisfying that this person was respected and appreciated by others-real inclusion. I would have definititely showed my respect without a doubt!
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