MYTHS AND STEREOTYPES

Now that you have a better understanding of what albinism is, we can dispel some of the myths associated with the condition. The most common one is that people with albinism have red eyes. They DO NOT! At times, their eyes will have a reddish tint to them if the light hits them in a certain way, but most people with albinism have light blue or gray eyes. Some have hazel or brown eyes, and a few have violet eyes. “Red eyes” myth is particularly disturbing because it is so pervasive. People have been known to say, “She can't have albinism because she doesn’t have red eyes.”

Another common misperception about albinism is that it always results in complete lack of pigment. There are many different types of albinism. Many people with albinism have some form of melanin and may tan slightly. People with albinism can have blonde hair, red hair or even light brown hair. 

Other myths include that the belief that a child with albinism will be blind. Albinism causes “low vision”, or reduced vision acuity, but not blindness. Some people with albinism have vision that can be corrected to 20/200. People in this situation are called “legally blind” – an official designation that qualifies them for a variety of assistive services, but does not mean that are totally blind.

Less common, but equally untrue, are the myths that people with albinism are mentally impaired or have “special powers.” Some people with albinism have been asked if they glow in the dark, or can see in the dark. They entertainment industry have perpetuated these myths by portraying people with albinism in stereotypical roles. We hope that time and increased advocacy will courter this negative portrayal.


Personal experience:
I can not count how many times I have been told, "its impossible you can't have albinism because you do not have red eyes." Over the years I have had many people tell me some interesting things and I'm sure that they don't even know what they are even talking about.