DISABILITY RIGHTS AWARENESS MONTH – UNDERSTANDING DISABILITIES: VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE CHALLENGES

PRESS RELEASE

KwaNzimakwe, South Africa – In recognition of Disability Rights Awareness Month (3 Nov–3 Dec), Siyakwazi, a local non-profit organisation, aims to raise awareness about the diversity of disabilities, including those that may not be immediately visible. Disabilities can affect a person’s physical, sensory, cognitive, or mental functions and may be present from birth, be acquired over time, or result from illness or injury. While some disabilities are easily recognisable, many are not, yet they can impact an individual’s daily life just as profoundly.

Invisible disabilities include conditions such as autism, ADHD, hearing or visual impairments, chronic pain, and mental health disorders. People and children with these conditions often face misunderstanding or disbelief because their differences aren’t immediately visible. This lack of awareness can lead to further isolation, stigma, and reduced opportunities, limiting their full participation in society.

“We believe that all disabilities, whether visible or invisible, deserve recognition, understanding, and support,” says Cathy Mather-Pike, Siyakwazi’s Director. “We are committed to creating inclusive environments where everyone, even at the youngest age, feels valued, regardless of their abilities. It’s a common feeling that disability may make people feel uncomfortable, especially at first. But the truth is that disability doesn’t define who someone is and everyone’s rights deserve to be upheld.”

This Disability Rights Awareness Month, Siyakwazi encourages individuals, schools, businesses, and South Coasters to educate themselves about disability and to champion inclusion by fostering empathy and accessibility for everyone. By acknowledging and supporting people with disabilities, we take a step toward creating a society that values diversity and equal opportunities.

Siyakwazi relies on donations to provide educational support, therapy, and resources to children with disabilities and barriers to learning on the South Coast. To learn more or to contribute during Disability Rights Awareness Month, please visit www.siyakwazi.org.

A child with a disability is supported in classroom learning activities by a Siyakwazi fieldworker in KwaNzimakwe, near Munster.

What is Disability Rights Awareness Month?

South Africa observes National Disability Rights Awareness Month each year from 3 November to 3 December. The month culminates on 3 December, which marks both the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and National Disability Rights Awareness Day.

Disability can result from a range of impairments, including physical, cognitive, mental, sensory, emotional, or developmental, and may be present from birth or acquired later in life. Disability Rights Awareness Month serves as a crucial opportunity for everyone to take action in breaking down barriers and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities through meaningful, concrete efforts.