International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) will be observed on December 3rd.
This annual date of global recognition gives everyone – governments, organizations, and communities – an opportunity to raise awareness about the need to secure the rights of people with disabilities so they can participate fully, equally and effectively in society.
As we approach this important day, the Bellwoods’ Community Advisory Council (BCAC) wants to express its growing concern about the lack of progress being made to implement real changes to protect and support people with disabilities.
Disability is part of the human condition. Many people will become temporarily or permanently disabled at some point in their lives. Despite this reality, there is still no tangible plan to deliver on the Canada Disability Pension, provide adequate funding for supportive housing, respond to staff shortages in the community services sector or meet obligations made under accessibility laws, policies and practices. The lack of action on any of these fronts reinforces the little respect being given to the disabled community. What is not being done continues to have a profound impact on the lives of millions of us with disabilities.
There is so much to be done to pave the way for increased access to quality health, housing and community services and programs. We need to see real leadership and commitment to deliver on a plan of action. We urge the Federal, Provincial and Municipal government to step up and have the courage, determination and activism to do something tangible on IDPD to support our rights and well-being.
For further information:
BCAC is a forum where client representatives and allies meet as partners to exchange information on program and service planning, and support the development and implementation of Independent Living services.
The Council serves in an advisory capacity reporting to the Bellwoods’ Board of Directors
