By Onward Gangata
DEAF Women Included (DWI) executive director, Agnes Chindimba has challenged the media to use language that fosters and promotes inclusivity.
She made the call during a training for media practitioners on disability reporting organized by DWI in Gweru recently.
Chindimba pointed out that the media plays a crucial role in shaping and framing narratives and should be at the forefront of promoting inclusivity.
“People with disability have rights too like everyone else,they must be treated the same way as everyone,” she said.
“There are certain words and phrases that stereotypes and have negative connotations, these are no longer permissible.
“Instead, the media must play its role with tolerance and use language that is sensitive and inclusive.”
She pointed out that as an organization, DWI was generally happy with the significant strides the country has made in promoting inclusivity of people with disability.
Chindimba praised the country for having a National Disability policy but noted that more needs to be done in strengthening the legal framework.
“It is good that we have a National Disability policy in the country however, there are gaps here and there.
“The hope is that these can be addressed through the various legal instruments that are being put in place,” she added.
