International Albinism Awareness Day

International Albinism Awareness Day History

International Albinism Awareness Day is an annual global event that honours and celebrates the unique lives of individuals with albinism. The observance aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by people with this rare genetic condition that affects the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for colouring skin, hair, and eyes. This important day highlights the ongoing need for better education and understanding of albinism, as well as addressing the discrimination and social isolation that many experience as a result of their distinctive appearance.

The General Assembly of the United Nations first adopted a resolution establishing International Albinism Awareness Day in 2014, with the inaugural observance taking place on June 13, 2015. While albinism is relatively rare, individuals in Australia who have this condition face similar challenges and prejudice as those in other countries. This day is an opportunity for Australians to learn more about albinism, embrace the local community, and help promote greater inclusivity and understanding in their daily lives.

Various events and activities are held throughout Australia during International Albinism Awareness Day to celebrate and educate the public. These gatherings can include educational seminars, workshops, and awareness-raising campaigns. People are encouraged to engage in conversations about albinism with friends, family, and colleagues, share experiences and stories, and create a more inclusive environment for those living with this condition. In Australia, International Albinism Awareness Day takes place annually on June 13th, fostering a sense of community and understanding for people with albinism.

International Albinism Awareness Day facts

• It is estimated that about 1 in 17,000 people worldwide has some form of albinism.
• Albinism is often associated with various visual impairments, such as nystagmus (involuntary eye movements), strabismus (crossed or misaligned eyes), and photophobia (sensitivity to light).
• Albinism is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the production of melanin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for coloring the skin, hair, and eyes. It is typically inherited when both parents carry the gene mutation.
• In Australia, approximately 1 in every 17,000 people has albinism, and it is estimated that around 1,500 people are living with the condition.
• In addition to skin cancer, people with albinism often experience vision problems such as nystagmus (involuntary eye movements), strabismus (misaligned eyes), and low vision.

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Albinism Awareness Day

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Register for the virtual choir hosted by National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation.
• Explore a reading list that can help educate and spark conversation about albinism.
• Watch a documentary to learn more about living with Albinism in Australia. Here are our recommendations:
  1. Living Black: Albinism in Australia (2013) - This episode of the Australian television program Living Black investigates the experience of living with albinism in Australia. It explores various aspects of the condition, such as how it affects daily life, the challenges faced, and the efforts to create awareness.
  2. Ich Bin Weiß - Eine Albino Frau im Land der Aborigines (2010) - A German documentary that follows an Australian Aboriginal woman with albinism named Nakkiah. The documentary explores her experience growing up with the condition in Australia as she visits her hometown and meets other people with albinism.
• Reach out to local organizations that advocate for persons with albinism, such as the Albinism Fellowship of Australia (AFA). These organizations often have resources, opportunities to volunteer, or events to celebrate International Albinism Awareness Day.