As September draws to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on the journey we’ve taken this month through the themes of legacy, language, and culture. Together, they have reminded us that our heritage is more than history — it is the living story of who we are, what we value, and how we choose to carry those values forward.
When poverty trauma or exclusion shape this story, the legacy left behind can carry wounds. Yet, when we practice inclusion, respect, and compassion, we rewrite that legacy into one of strength, pride, and dignity. This is the power of Heritage: it shows us that our choices today become the culture of tomorrow.
As we turn our gaze to October, we carry this lesson with us. The month ahead is not only about affirming that “Disability Rights Are Human Rights” — it is also Mental Health Awareness Month, which includes many aspects of well-being: from healing trauma, to building supportive environments, to recognising the daily resilience in our communities.
Heritage teaches us where we come from. Mental health reminds us to care for the person we are becoming. And together, they call us to build a future where every person — Deaf, Blind, DeafBlind, or non-disabled — belongs fully and equally.
Let’s step into October with open minds and caring hearts, ready to explore how mental health, access, protection, and participation shape the rights and dignity of us all.
✨ DBSA — reminding South Africa that inclusion begins with awareness, and grows through action.