International Albinism Awareness Day at UNESCO
On International Albinism Awareness Day, 13 June, UNESCO will organize an event entitled Living with Albinism to draw attention to this hereditary genetic characteristic which all too often gives rise to unjustifiable discrimination.
A conference on the medicine’s approach to albinism (2.30-3.45 pm, Room II) will bring together physicians, dermatologists and geneticists who will take stock of what is known today about Albinism, which is occasioned by a low production of melanin, the pigment that colours the skin.
Living with Albinism will be the subject of the following session (4 - 5.20pm) which will bring together representatives from civil society organizations of people with this condition. The session will also feature the screening of “Black Man, White Skin,” a documentary film by José Manuel Colón.
Ebony White, a photographic exhibition by Patricia Willocq will be held during the event ( Miró Room).
In 2013, the United Nations’ General Assembly adopted a resolution denouncing attacks on, and discrimination against, people with Albinism. The resolution furthermore calls on States to take all measures necessary to ensure their effective protection. In 2014, the United Nations’ General Assembly proclaimed 13 June as International Albinism Awareness Day.
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Media wishing to cover the event, should request accreditation from: Djibril Kebe, UNESCO Press Service, : +33 (0) 1 45 68 17 41, d.kebe(at)unesco.org
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