Italian Association Amici di Raoul Follereau (AIFO)

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A Patron Saint for Human Rights
CANONIZATION OF FATHER DAMIEN
A MESSAGE FROM YOHEI SASAKAWA

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Fr Damien

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Mr. Sasakawa is Chairman of The Nippon Foundation, WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination, and Japanese Government Goodwill Ambassador for the Human Rights of People Affected by Leprosy. His message on the occasion of the Canonization of Father Damien on 11 October 2009 is presented here:

In the long history of leprosy, the name of Father Damien stands out.  His selfless devotion to people affected by the disease was both a mark of his compassion and recognition that they were fellow human beings.

Today we know far more about leprosy and have access to an effective cure that was not available in Father Damien’s time.  Detected early and treated promptly, the disease is now completely curable.

Yet people affected by leprosy still face stigma and discrimination; they and their family members still endure emotional and psychological pain as a result of social prejudice.

Denying people their human rights on the basis of disease is wrong.  Only by working together can we eliminate fear, discrimination and social stigma wherever they exist.  The responsibility for carrying on Father Damien’s legacy rests with all of us.