Claremont non-profit raises awareness for disability rights on International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Employees and service-users of a Claremont-based non-profit that provides support for persons with disabilities raised awareness on International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed today, Wednesday, December 3.

The Western Cape Cerebral Palsy Association (WCCPA) organised a picket demonstration, in which over 50 of its service users, who are people with disabilities, marched from the centre in First Avenue, Claremont, towards Imam Haroon Road.

Service users come from projects managed by the WCCPA, including the Rosedon House, The Village Centre and De Heide Special Care Centre.

The Ward 58 and Ward 59 Metro Police led the WCCPA service users in their march, where some were in wheelchairs. Some were using walking frames and were holding signs that read, “Abilities shine brighter than disabilities,” “Unity in diversity, strength in inclusion,” and “Disability rights are civil rights,” to name a few.

WCCPA Social Work supervisor, Belinda Lewendal, said the service users were making a stand on Imam Haron Road, to demonstrate that people with disabilities matter. “People with disabilities need to be inclusive, be visible, especially our children,” she said.

The College of Magic entertained the service users. They also participated in physical exercise activities.

For more information, visit WCCPA or email cheryl@wccpa.org.za