Africa-Press – Angola. The president of the Association for the Support of Albino People (ALPA) in Cunene, Andreia Gilberto, asked this Tuesday, in Ondjiva, for greater support and respect for people with albinism, in defense of their rights and freedoms.
Andreia Gilberto, who was speaking on the sidelines of the event alluding to the 13th of June, World Albinism Awareness Day, said that people with albinism are like any other and deserve respect from society.
He informed that there is still the problem of prejudice against the albino person, a situation that must be fought, with awareness actions to guarantee the rights and appreciation of this fringe.
“Prejudice has been removing many children from schools, so the association has been carrying out campaigns to raise awareness among the population in order to contribute to their protection”, he said.
Andreia Gilberto underlined that she has been working on supporting these children to return to school, as well as reinforcing support with the delivery of creams, soaps, and other products.
In turn, the director of the provincial office for Social Action, Family and Gender Equality in Cunene, Georgina Sónia Braga, encouraged albinos’ self-esteem, commitment to training, combating discrimination and racism in society.
The person in charge stated that the date is fundamental, which is why she called on society to reflect on this day, as a way of combating prejudice and discrimination against albino people.
The act was marked by the delivery of creams, soaps, hat and sunglasses.
Albinism is a genetic disorder characterized by the total or partial absence of melanin (pigment responsible for the color of the skin, hair and eyes).
The Association for the Support of Albino People (ALPA) in Cunene controls 370 albinos, of which more than 70% live in vulnerable conditions.
Proclaimed by the United Nations, World Albinism Awareness Day is celebrated annually on June 13, since 2015, with a view to eradicating prejudice and stigma that albinos are victims of.
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