September marks Albinism Awareness Month, a significant time to raise awareness and advocate for the safety and rights of individuals with albinism. This month highlights the difficulties, stigma, and discrimination that people with albinism face, while also advancing inclusion, dignity, and understanding for those living with the condition.
The Gauteng Department of Community Safety stands in full support of individuals with albinism and views this month as a call to action. Protecting the rights and safety of vulnerable groups lies at the heart of building safer societies for all.
People with albinism have little to no melanin, the pigment that gives colour to skin, hair, and eyes. As a result, they may have lighter-than-normal skin, hair, or eye colour. Albinism is caused by genetic changes inherited from one's parents. It is a human condition, not a curse.
The Department of Community Safety remains committed to safeguarding all Gauteng residents and strongly condemns the ongoing spread of misconceptions and superstitions about people with albinism, as these fuel violence and discrimination. Communities are encouraged to raise awareness to reduce stigma, social exclusion, and mistreatment of individuals with albinism.
More work, however, is still needed to create safe and inclusive environments. This can be achieved through educational programmes about the realities faced by people with albinism, engaging in law enforcement and safety structures to prioritize reported cases, and mobilizing communities to report acts of prejudice. Victim support structures must also accommodate individuals with albinism to ensure they have safe and secure spaces.
This month is a call for change: to build a safer Gauteng where everyone lives without fear and is treated with dignity. Ignorance is not bliss; knowledge and mindfulness are. The Department of Community Safety calls on all residents to continue making Gauteng a safe and secure province for everyone.