New Delhi: It is important to facilitate smooth reading process for those who cannot see the world, that is people who are visually impaired or blind. While it is unfortunate that they cannot experience the beauty of this world, it is our duty to support them and ensure that they do not feel left out or detached with the society and can participate in the intake of knowledge. Every year on January 4, World Braille Day is observed all over the world for the benefit of those who are blind and visually impaired.
Why is World Braille Day observed on January 4?
Every year, World Braille Day is observed on January 4 as the United Nations chose this date in November 2018 to mark the birthday of Louis Braille, the man who invented braille. Born in France in 1809, he became blind after a childhood accident but he adapted to his new way of living. When he was just 15, Louis created a system to read and write which was based on the night writing system of Charles Barbier and today, the system is known as braille. Today, it is used all over the world.
World Braille Day: What is the significance of this day?
It is a fact universally acknowledged that people with disabilities, which may be one billion all over the world, have lesser probability to access education, healthcare, community participation and employment. In any society affected by crisis, they are more likely to be neglected and abused and to live as marginalised section.
Every year, World Braille Day raises awareness about the Braille’s importance as a means of communication in the full realization of the human rights for blind and visually impaired people. The day reminds us about the importance of accessibility and independence for those people. Today, there are many establishments like banks, hospitals and restaurants who don’t offer braille versions of their print materials which is very problematic for those who are blind. The day makes us aware about braille and other accessible forms of communication and everybody should get the same accommodations and services, and it is our responsibility to make our workplaces more accessible for everyone.
What is the theme for this year?
This year, the theme of the World Braille Day is ‘Celebrating Accessibility and Inclusion for the Visually Impaired’. The theme calls to make braille accessible to every blind people and that they be included in the activities of the mainstream society.
World Braille Day, observed annually on January 4, commemorates Louis Braille’s birthday and the invention of Braille. This system revolutionized literacy for the blind and visually impaired. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
