National Disability Rights Awareness Month was marked from 3 November to 3 December, the latter date International Day of Persons with Disabilities as well as National Disability Rights Awareness Day.
Denzil Jacobs, councillor for Ward 11 in Grabouw, is the first, and only, disabled councillor in Theewaterskloof Municipality. (Read his inspiring life story in Hermanus Times of 7 September 2022).
At the last TWK council meeting for 2022 he delivered a passionate speech about his concerns for people with disabilities and suggested some useful changes for TWK to consider implementing, to make life easier and safer for people with disabilities. Some of the suggestions were:. Footpaths and/or railings for disabled people to ensure their safety so as not to be a source of obstruction for vehicles on roads.. Incorporation of disabled-friendly access in building plans before council approval.. Local government employment for people with disabilities.. Work with advocacy organisations for the disabled to achieve positive change to and for the community.. Inclusion of schools or work organisations with disabled people in sport and all aspects of community life.. Public transport for disabled people.. A disability budget for TWK.
Jacobs added: “People with disabilities are also capable of changing the lives of others and can make a difference in our communities with the support of our local government.
“We are not victims, but also have ability to be the change by seeking equality in opportunities and uplifting the community in Theewaterskloof and South Africa.”
Jacobs urged the council to include people with disabilities in future discussions about disability policies before making any decisions.
He asked disabled residents of Theewaterskloof to partake in this policy to build a profile for disabled residents.
Jacobs added: “3 December, National Disability Rights Awareness Day, is a day to celebrate the abilities of people with disabilities. It is of the utmost importance to promote the rights of people with disabilities.”
