Breaking Barriers: The Emergence of Athletes with Albinism in Sports Despite Stigma
Sports have often been seen as a realm where talent, determination, and hard work overcome societal divisions, including those of race and ethnicity. Yet, the underrepresentation of people with albinism in sports shows that there are still hurdles to achieving full inclusivity, writes Ebenezer Bajela.
On a hot afternoon, with temperatures around 32°C, a man in a blue T-shirt and jeans walked confidently under the glaring sun. His distinct appearance—white hair, pale skin, and pink eyes—indicated that he had albinism, a condition that causes a lack of melanin, the pigment that protects against sun damage. Despite common beliefs that individuals with albinism struggle in sunlight, this man, Ajisafe Sunday, moved with ease, even turning down an offer for a ride.
Ajisafe’s calm demeanor in the heat challenges misconceptions that people with albinism cannot function well in daylight due to vision problems or sun sensitivity. These myths persist alongside others that have fueled discrimination against those with albinism for centuries. In some cultures, there are dangerous superstitions about people with albinism, including the belief that they possess magical properties.
The situation is particularly challenging in sub-Saharan Africa, where people with albinism face severe stigmatization, making it difficult for them to thrive in many areas of life, including sports. For instance, Adiaratou Iglesias Forneiro, originally from Mali, had to flee to Spain after facing violent attacks. Today, Forneiro is a decorated athlete, having won multiple medals, including gold at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.
Exclusion from Sports
In many African countries, particularly in Nigeria, the exclusion of people with albinism from sports highlights the broader societal barriers they face. While sports should be an inclusive space, deeply ingrained misconceptions often lead to their marginalization.
Despite common assumptions about the limitations of albinism, athletes like Ajisafe emphasize that, with the right accommodations, individuals with albinism can actively participate in many sports. Globally, athletes with albinism have excelled in sports like basketball, swimming, and track events. For example, at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, Forneiro narrowly missed a podium finish in the women’s 400m-T13 race.
However, in Nigeria, no person with albinism has ever represented the country in an official sporting event. This exclusion serves as a reminder that much work remains to be done in promoting inclusivity.
Success Stories and Overcoming Stigma
Examples from around the world show that albinism should not be a barrier to athletic achievement. Jaylen Fisher, a top-ranked basketball recruit born with albinism, excelled in college basketball in the United States. Similarly, Zambian runner Monica Munga has used sports to break the stigma associated with albinism.
While people with albinism may face unique challenges—such as sensitivity to sunlight and, in some cases, vision impairments—there are many sports, including indoor activities, where they can participate without any health risks. Sports like swimming, gymnastics, and chess can easily accommodate their needs.
The Role of Parents and Support Systems
The support of family is critical in helping people with albinism overcome social stigmas. According to Tolani Ojuri, Lagos State Chairman of the Albinism Association of Nigeria, it is essential that families offer emotional and practical support from an early age to build their children’s self-esteem and confidence.
Sports journalist Sussan Omopeloye, who also lives with albinism, credits her family’s encouragement for helping her pursue sports from a young age. She believes that family support is essential in fostering talent and confidence, which can counter the negative perceptions that often surround people with albinism.
Raising Awareness and Advocating for Change
Increased awareness about albinism is crucial for breaking down barriers. International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD), observed annually, has promoted the inclusion of people with albinism across all sectors of society, including sports. However, more needs to be done to combat the ongoing discrimination and exclusion these individuals face.
Ojuri has called for more awareness campaigns and government support to ensure that people with albinism are not only accepted in sports but also given the opportunity to thrive. Sports organizations must implement policies that prohibit discrimination and create a welcoming environment for athletes of all backgrounds.
By fostering inclusivity and challenging the stereotypes surrounding albinism, the sports world can create an environment where all athletes, regardless of their physical differences, have the opportunity to succeed.