By Adriana Reyes
Mukua Cooperation Circle, Panama
On June 13 in the city of Panama, Nileyn Wilson, a young member of Mukua Cooperation Circle (Mujeres Kunas Artesanas CC), was the Master of Ceremonies of the Artistic Portrait Exhibition of Albinos, by the artist Guna Naypiler Hackin. This was part of the celebration of the World Day of Albinism, in the Simon Bolívar Library of Panama City.
To explore a bit of history: people with albinism are discriminated against in many parts of the world. They are victims of ignorance of society and even of the medical community. The appearance of people with this condition has given rise to false beliefs and superstitious attitudes that have fostered their marginalization and social exclusion.
Click the yellow arrows to scroll through the photos in the slideshow below.
In some communities, misconceptions and myths, under the enormous influence of superstition, constantly endanger the safety and life of people with albinism. These are centuries-old beliefs and myths present in cultural attitudes and practices throughout the world.
On December 18, 2014, the General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/69/1970, which proclaims that, starting in 2015, the International Albinism Awareness Day will be celebrated on June 13.
In response to this mandate from the UN in Panama, World Albinism Day is commemorated by our Mukua Cooperation Circle, and members actively participate in raising awareness about the equality and inclusion of albino people in the community where this Cooperation Circle operates.
On this occasion, the inauguration of the photographic exhibition was attended by 65 people who received the message of love and hope of our young Nileyn.
