Today is International Left-Handers Day, observed globally every year on 13 August.
The day was established to raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by left-handed individuals in a predominantly right-handed world.
I was unaware of both this day and the everyday struggles experienced by left-handed people until two years ago, when I attended an awareness event at the University of Johannesburg.
I left the session both enlightened and troubled.
Enlightened because I had gained a deeper understanding of the issue, and troubled because I realised how oblivious I had been to the challenges faced by our left-handed brothers and sisters.
Researchers estimate that there are between 100 million and 200 million left-handers worldwide.
In his paper, The Sinister Handed, Dr Adrian E. Flatt noted that most studies on handedness suggest a ratio of between eight-to-one and nine-to-one in favour of right-handedness, with men showing a slightly higher incidence of left-handedness than women.
“There seems to be no good answer as to why people are left-handed,” wrote Dr Flatt.
“Logic would seem to dictate that the cause lies in the genes, yet simple genetics does not explain why left-handers are born into completely right-handed families.”
He further noted that studies show a significantly higher incidence of left-handedness among identical twins than in the general population.
According to his research, the percentage of left-handed children born to two right-handed parents is 2%; to one right-handed and one left-handed parent, 17%; and to two left-handed parents, 50%.
Studies of adopted children also suggest that genetics, rather than environmental factors, plays a significant role in determining hand preference.
Beyond the scientific debate surrounding its causes, left-handedness has long been the subject of societal stigma and misconceptions.
Historically, left-handedness has been associated with negative connotations such as being “sinister” or “evil”, leading to discrimination and prejudice in some societies.
Many left-handers report feeling pressured to conform to right-handed norms, a reality that can contribute to social anxiety and feelings of inadequacy.
For those who are right-handed, it can be difficult to fully appreciate the frustrations that left-handers experience daily.
From using scissors, can openers, door handles, computer mice and measuring tapes, to something as simple as pulling up a zipper on a pair of pants, the world is largely designed with right-handed users in mind.
Even the placement of power and volume buttons on many mobile phones often seems better suited to right-handed people.
Cultural and religious beliefs have added further complexity to the experiences of left-handers.
In some cultures, using the left hand for eating or passing items is considered disrespectful. Religious traditions have also, at times, reinforced the preference for the right hand.
In the Bible, for example, the blessed are often described as sitting at the right hand of God, never the left.
According to Dr Flatt, “The complete concordance of the Bible has more than 1 600 references to the hand, most of which are in praise, or at least approval, of the right hand.
“The Psalms contain more than 25 favourable references to the right hand. Similar sentiments can be found in both the Torah and the Koran.”
The challenges faced by left-handers are therefore multifaceted, encompassing social, practical and cultural dimensions. While significant progress has been made in raising awareness, there is still work to be done.
As society becomes more conscious of these realities, there is reason for optimism.
A more inclusive world, one that accommodates the needs of left-handed individuals rather than expecting them to adapt constantly, is possible.
Such a world would allow left-handers to thrive without the pressures of conforming to right-handed norms.
On this International Left-Handers Day, perhaps the rest of us should take a moment to recognise the everyday obstacles faced by nearly one in 10 people and recommit ourselves to building a society that is inclusive for all, regardless of which hand they favour.
*Khulu Phasiwe is the Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) Spokesperson, but writes in his personal capacity. The views expressed by Khulu Phasiwe are not necessarily those of The Bulrushes
