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Kigali Declaration
The Kigali Declaration on Neglected Tropical Diseases is a global health project that aims to mobilize resources for the control and eradication of infectious diseases like Leprosy. On June 23rd, 2022, the Government of Canada signed the Kigali Declaration. Canada is committed to the world's most vulnerable people - the 1.7 billion people affected by Neglected Tropical Diseases. On June 1st, 2023, the Director of the Control of NTDs at WHO, Dr Ibrahima Socé Fall, will be in Canada to celebrate the global progress made to end NTDs and to remember Canada's endorsement of the Kigali Declaration.
UN Special Rapporteur LEPROSY
Alice Cruz, UN Special Rapporteur on discrimination against people affected by leprosy, gave fer final report to the Human Rights Council this month. The report is a reflection on her mandate during the past six years. The report propose a framework to improve health services, decent employment, social protections and justice. It also provides a long list of ongoing challenges like discrimination in education, healthcare and social service.
Honoring Saint Damien
Bishop Larry Silva of the Diocese of Honolulu, blessed a bronze statue entitled Father Damien, created by sculptor Dale Zarella in honor of Saint Damien, the Belgian priest who volunteered to care for patients exiled to Molokaʻi. The blessing came as part of the St. Damien’s Feast Day celebration at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Wailuku on Wednesday, May 10 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Father Damien's arrival in Kalaupapa. Saint Damien of Molokaʻi offered his life in service of those suffering from leprosy.
