A group of visually impaired Liberians staged a peaceful protest on Thursday along the Japan Freeway in Monrovia, calling on the government to address longstanding issues affecting their community.
The demonstrators, many of whom walked with the aid of white canes, said they were driven to the streets by poor living conditions and a lack of adequate support from the government. Their demands include access to affordable housing, healthcare, education, and opportunities for economic empowerment.
“We are citizens too. We deserve to live in dignity,” said one protester. “The government has forgotten about us, but today, we want to be seen and heard.”
The protest caused temporary traffic delays on the busy thoroughfare as police officers arrived to manage the situation and ensure the demonstration remained orderly. Authorities reported no incidents of violence or unrest.
Leaders of the blind community are now urging the Government of Liberia—particularly the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection ~ to engage in meaningful dialogue and implement long-term policies that improve the welfare of people living with disabilities.
The blinds emphasized that inclusion and equality must be more than promises, but reflected in action and tangible improvements in their daily lives.
