Truly special

There needs to be strong lobbying to bring the struggle of differently-abled persons to the attention of our govt

Many a time in Pakistan, parents consider alternative options when they give birth to a child who is born differently-abled. The same is the case when a child becomes differently-abled at a young age. However, a silver lining shined through for our society as a whole, upon the news of Nayab Bibi from Swabi recently winning a bronze medal in the 200-metre race at the Special Olympics in Los Angeles. Nayab, despite being unable to use her left hand since childhood, provides hope to other children and adults who are differently-abled. A special mention goes to Nayab’s parents for supporting her talents and interests. The hope that Nayab brings is necessary for Pakistan to drive the movement towards incorporating all citizens into the fabric of our heavily biased and prejudiced society. Where the so-called leadership fails or is occupied with tasks other than ensuring basic rights for all citizens, the citizens themselves must come together and lobby for better incorporation of disabled persons into Pakistani society, including our schools, public places and workplaces.

The reality is that differently-abled persons are not treated in a friendly manner. They might receive sympathy from those with whom they cross paths, but that is not what they need. They require facilities and systems that have provisions for helping differently-abled persons hone the abilities and talents they possess rather than the focus being on what they cannot do. The nation may be cheering for Nayab and others who have shone at the Special Olympics, but the government appears apathetic towards the Pakistani competitors securing a high number of medals in various disciplines. The participants from Pakistan attend such contests to bring fame and repute to their country and yet, those in charge of the country’s affairs seem unappreciative. There needs to be strong lobbying that aims to bring the struggle of differently-abled persons to the attention of our government, not for sympathy, but to help create opportunities and facilities to weave them more evenly within our social fabric.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 8^th,  2015.

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