Global Appeal
To end stigma and discrimination against people affected by leprosy
Every year, in conjunction with World Leprosy Day on the last Sunday of January, Mr Yohei Sasakawa, Chairman of The Nippon Foundation, WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination, leads a Global Appeal to end stigma and discrimination against people affected by Leprosy.
Leprosy is as much a social as a medical condition. Despite being a curable disease for which treatment is available free of cost, there are several prevailing myths including the disease being hereditary and caused by divine punishment for past sins, largely stemming from the ‘fear of unknown’ or lack of awareness about the disease. A major obstacle to the uplift of the status of persons affected by Leprosy is the social stigma arising from the disabling and disfiguring nature of the condition in a few of those affected.
The Global Appeal is made to raise awareness in society regarding the fact that Leprosy is a curable disease with treatment available free of cost and that discrimination against persons affected by leprosy is unjustifiable. The first Global Appeal was made in 2006.
Rising to Dignity Awards
Families affected by Leprosy are often dependent on alms and begging for survival. Social ostracism is further accentuated by economic deprivation.
S-ILF provides financial assistance for sustainable income generation through livelihood projects identified by the people themselves. S-ILF supports them with training and technical assistance, to ensure that income-generating activities are viable and sustainable. Such livelihood initiatives are tools to mainstream persons affected by Leprosy.
Rising to Dignity Awards recognise the dedication and hard work of those running the livelihood enterprises, which has enabled them to make a successful transition from begging to dignified livelihood.
The award in the form of a Trophy, a Citation and a cash award is presented on the occasion of S-ILF’s Foundation Day on 21st November. The Colony and State Leaders of such projects also receive a Citation in recognition of their contribution to the success of the livelihood projects.
Information will come soon.