Lifestyle

Bontle Modiselle shows sis Refilwe some love as we celebrate International Albinism Awareness Day

June 13 marks International Albinism Awareness Day around the globe. This day is observed to educate everyone about the rights of people with albinism and celebrate them. The United Nations General Assembly first perceived this day as a resolution. The theme of the 5th anniversary of International Albinism Awareness Day is “Made To Shine.” This day is an appeal to stand in solidarity with people living with this condition.

Refilwe Modiselle

Albinism is a rare, non-contagious, genetically inherited condition found in all countries across the world irrespective of background or culture. This dissimilarity is a lack of melanin in the eyes, skin and hair making prone to the sun and bright light. There is no treatment or cure for the absence of pigmentation that is dominant in albinism.

Michelle Mosalakae

People with albinism often face discrimination and violence and this day is celebrated in an effort to stand against the bullies who target them. This commemoration holds immense significance in the lives of individuals with albinism and their families globally.

Salif Keita

Some of Mzansi’s celebs took time to share love for people living with albinism, to show people that there is no need to fear them or discriminate against them in anyway.

Bontle Modiselle shared the love in a picture with sister Refilwe Modiselle who lives with Albinism. She captioned it:

WE ARE BLACK and BEAUTIFUL ✊🏽🖤| There is so much learning and unlearning that WE as an African people at large need to do – in loving and protecting ourselves, our sisters, our brothers, our own. Lesson 1: We call them People with Albinism, NOT Albinos. Lesson 2: STOP KILLING PEOPLE WITH ALBINISM!!!

Cassper Nyovest on this day remembered Thando Hopa. He posted a picture of her with the message;

Happy international albinism awareness day as declared by the United Nations. This is Thando Hopa! A South African model, lawyer and activist who made history by being the first woman with albinism on a Vogue cover when she graced the cover of Vogue Portugal. All the flowers!!!