One of the targets of goal 10 is to empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all; Putting much emphasis on the minorities and marginalized groups.
Marginalized groups can be defined as those excluded from mainstream social, economic, educational, and/or cultural life. Examples of marginalized populations include, but are not limited to, groups excluded due to race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical ability, language, and/or immigration status.
The Constitution defines marginalized communities as one or more of the following:
- A community that, because of its relatively small population or for any other reason, has been unable to fully participate in the integrated social and economic life of Kenya as a whole.
- A traditional community that, out of a need or desire to preserve its unique culture and identity from assimilation, has remained outside the integrated social and economic life of Kenya as a whole.
- An indigenous community that has retained and maintained a traditional lifestyle and livelihood based on a hunter or gatherer economy; or pastoral persons and communities, whether they are:
- nomadic or
- a settled community that, because of its relative geographic isolation, has experienced only marginal participation in the integrated social and economic life of Kenya as a whole.
As a youth leader, you play a significant role in bridging the gap between the marginalized minority and their access to rights, resources, and opportunities. Seeing to it that all members of your society are treated equally.
A step to realizing equality is by individuals taking a step to understand their rights as citizens of Kenya. Without knowledge of your rights as a citizen, you become susceptible to all forms of exploitation. That is why every Friday we highlight provisions and break down some terminologies, for your consumption. Surprisingly, very few people have a copy of the 2010 Constitution and yet it has been made accessible digitally through an App on Google Playstore, or bodies like the Kenya Law Reforms Commission’s website. The constitution is not meant for lawyers or people dealing with legal issues. It is a document that is as important to every citizen as it is to be a citizen of a country.
What are the provisions that highlight issues on equality and our freedoms?
Chapter Four – The Bill of Rights
Article 27: Equality and freedom from Discrimination
Other crucial provisions:
Article 54: Persons with disabilities
Article 56: Minorities and marginalized groups
Share your thoughts. What other provisions do you think shed light on the most vulnerable members of society?
What are you doing in your capacity to see to it that these groups remain informed about their rights and freedoms?