Lahore – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, in her message on International Albinism Awareness Day, stated that albinism is not a weakness but a part of natural diversity. She emphasized that individuals with albinism represent a bright aspect of human beauty and ensuring their dignity and protection is a collective social responsibility.
Vision for an Inclusive Society
The chief minister said that Punjab envisions a society where no one is judged or considered inferior based on skin color, physical appearance, or any congenital difference. She stressed the need to further promote a culture of love, respect, and acceptance for people living with albinism.
Government Initiatives
Maryam Nawaz highlighted that the Punjab government is actively working to provide comprehensive educational and healthcare facilities to persons with albinism, along with other specially-abled individuals. She underscored the importance of safeguarding their rights and called for collective efforts to eliminate all forms of discrimination.
She added that ensuring dignity, protection, and equal opportunities for persons with albinism is a social obligation. The government’s goal is to build a Punjab where no person faces discrimination based on skin color, physical appearance, or inherited characteristics.
Healthcare and Social Protection
She further stated that persons with albinism require special attention in healthcare, education, and social protection. Efforts should also be made to address the issue of social isolation often faced by them. The chief minister noted that International Albinism Awareness Day is observed to raise awareness about this inherited genetic condition and to promote and protect the rights of those affected by it.
