'Differently-abled', not disabled

We often make the common mistake of calling a person with disabilities as a 'disabled person'. When we call anyone disabled, we are subconsciously giving importance to his/her impairment rather than his/her abilities.

In this world, each and every person has their distinct talents and capabilities like thinking, learning, speaking, remembering, to take part in activities and so on. It is possible that someone who cannot walk can operate a computer and earn more money through freelancing or outsourcing jobs. Under such circumstances, he or she is probably doing better than someone who can walk but does not have the skills to do these things. Despite their versatile participation and contribution to society, differently-abled people are often marginalised.

People with disabilities should not be discriminated. They have equal right to lead their lives with dignity.

Ariful Islam Anu

University of Barishal

islamarif1971@gmail.com