july is disability pride month. it is also summer in the northern hemisphere, and this summer we have seen record breaking hot temperatures across the globe. it might be apt to remember that disabled people are a population vulnerable to extreme weather, and significantly more at risk of death or health issues during a heatwave. "the global mortality rate of people with disabilities in natural disasters is up to four times higher than people without disabilities." (source). disability may increase the relative risk of a heatwave more than old age, socioeconomic status, and being outdoors (source). even in the places most affected by the rising heat, disabled people are barely included in action plans for public safety, if at all (source). global warming is a an issue that affects a wide range of people, but let's not forget it is also a disability rights issue
Loading...
