Special Day Celebrates Left-Handers
On August 13th, many countries around the world observe International Left-Handers Day. The goal of the day is to highlight the experiences of people who are born “lefties.”Although they have many theories, scientists do not conclusively know why some people are born left-handed. They do know, however, that some of the traits are genetically rooted, and that left-handed people tend to use the right side of their brain more.According to statistics, around 10 percent of people in the world are left-handers, which means that the global population is predominantly right-handed. This imbalance can sometimes cause problems for southpaws around the globe.In some ancient cultures, left-handed individuals were ostracized and even believed to be possessed by evil spirits. Today, of course, there is much more acceptance and understanding regarding left-handers.Nevertheless, the majority of the world is still tailor-made for right-handed people. Scissors, spiral notebooks, credit-card machines, and door handles are some everyday objects that cater to the right-handed. Because of this, left-handers often find it difficult and frustrating to use them.In 1976, a left-handed American named Dean R. Campbell wanted to bring attention to such inconveniences faced by his kind. So, on August 13th of that year, Campbell announced the founding of International Left-Handers Day. Since that small inaugural event, it has grown to become recognized worldwide.Along with raising awareness of the disadvantages faced by southpaws, International Left-Handers Day has also become a way to celebrate their uniqueness and difference. In the past, some companies have even released special “left-handed” versions of their products for the holiday.
Questions:1. What is the purpose of International Left-Handers Day?
2. How many people in the world are left-handed?
3. What problems do left-handed people face in a right-handed world?
4. Who started International Left-Handers Day, and when?
5. Do you think it’s important to celebrate International Left-Handers Day?
Why or why not? What could be done to make everyday life easier for left-handed people?
