A Mother’s Mission to Protect and Advocate for Her Son: Baraka’s Story

Advocacy in the Face of Adversity

* Baraka faced adversity from a young age. Born with cerebral palsy (CP), Baraka encountered challenges with his speech and mobility, but the most limiting barrier was the discrimination he endured from those in his community and even his own family. Baraka’s father and extended family believe disabilities like CP are caused by demons and refuse to accept him. His father attempted to harm him and eventually abandoned him because of his disability. Throughout it all, Baraka’s mother and sister have been his primary caretakers, working closely with Kupenda to receive support and education.

Through multiple counseling sessions Kupenda has helped Baraka’s mother better understand the rights of the children with disabilities, proper care, abuse prevention, and reporting procedures. Kupenda also connected Baraka’s mother with the Child Protection Center to seek justice after Baraka was burned by his father. Today, Kupenda continues to equip Baraka’s mother with the tools and resources she needs to advocate for his safety and inclusion.

A Home to Call Their Own

Baraka’s mother has also faced challenges finding housing that is safe and welcoming for him. She shared that when landlords discover that she has a child with a severe disability, they often refuse to rent to her, believing it is a bad omen or a sign of the devil. Kupenda has also played a role in partnering with Baraka and his mother to find a permanent home and provide a monthly stipend to buy food. Recently, she shared the following with Kupenda:

“Last year, I was really disturbed because I couldn’t get a rental house to settle in. Whenever I rented a new house, the landlord would chase me after a month when he or she discovered I had a child with disability. But I am now grateful, through our local church, I got a rental house where both my child and I are loved and valued.”

Dismantling Stigma

Kupenda has been an integral part of supporting and protecting Baraka throughout his childhood, while also providing education and resources to his mother. Through these services, Baraka’s mother and her family have learned about the causes of disability and have been helping dismantle the stigma and misinformation that exists. Baraka’s mother continues to be a fierce advocate for him. She recently thanked Kupenda and stated:

“I thank you so much [Kupenda], for the role you are playing in improving the life of my child. God bless you.” 

Baraka’s family, friends, and teachers have seen such growth in Baraka and have shared that he loves to smile and is such a jovial child. He has become more confident and loves music and playing with his friends that are now able to visit him at his home.

How to Offer Support

Baraka and his mother’s story is one of perseverance. They have faced abuse, discrimination, and unstable housing, yet have continued to advocate for children’s rights and to educate themselves and others with the help of Kupenda. Learn more about how you can help Kupenda support children with disabilities and their caretakers, such as Baraka and his mother.

*Name changed for privacy

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