The Lionheart Ability Leaders International Foundation (LALIF) is set to unveil a new association aimed at advocating for the inclusion and recognition of the Deaf-blind community in Nigeria. This landmark initiative seeks to address the marginalization faced by individuals with both vision and hearing impairments.
The association will be formally introduced at its inaugural national conference, scheduled for October 9-11, 2024, in Lagos State.
The event will center around the theme: “Out of the Darkness of Marginalization: Nothing About Disabilities or Special Education Any Longer Without Deaf-blindness.” The conference is expected to draw notable figures from the disability community, as well as professionals in special education. According to the organizers, attendance is by invitation or registration only.
Mr. Solomon Okelola, a leading figure in the initiative, emphasized the importance of collaboration: “As we embark on the next phase of the struggle for inclusion, we look forward to working closely with donors, the government, and fellow organizations. Our mission is to ensure academic, health, social, and all-around inclusion for these unique individuals who have long been marginalized.”
Okelola also highlighted the societal stigma faced by the Deaf-blind community, with many individuals being hidden away due to misconceptions about their ability to contribute meaningfully to society.
LALIF hopes this new association will change that narrative, offering a platform for visibility, advocacy, and empowerment.