Disabled people fight for their rights

Foto: Helena Prentis

By: Helena Prentis

Today a group of both physically and mentally disabled people protested in the zocalo of Puebla in an act which marks the ongoing battle occurring in many Latin American countries where the rights of disabled people are considered as secondary to those of other citizens.

The protest follows on from the horrifying events that occurred in La Paz, Bolivia last week when a group of 500 disabled peaceful protestors were sprayed with chemicals by the police in an attempt to halt the march.

Tens of people had to receive medical attention for problems such an impaired vision and respiratory problems. The aftermath of the event has been the return of demands for more rights for disabled people, speaking to protestors today, many claimed that the Mexican government does not follow United Nations recommendations for aiding people with disabilities.

One protestor drew on the importance of educating the whole population on disabilities, stating that mental illnesses especially are still considered a sort of taboo, especially in indigenous communities.