Understanding Disability

Understanding Disability

Since the United Nations’ International Year of Disabled Persons in 1981, Canadians have become increasingly aware of obstacles that prevent full participation in community affairs by citizens with disabilities. People from all walks of life now recognize the importance of building on Canada’s record of achievement in the disability field, particularly in such areas as transportation, housing, employment, education, communications and recreation. Integration and self-determination by people with disabilities find practical expression in economic and social terms throughout Canada, but some difficult challenges remain.

Section 15, Charter of Rights and Freedoms offers guidance in determining how Canadians can improve the quality of life for citizens with disabilities.

“Every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination based on race, national origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability.”

Here are some helpful subjects.

Getting the Language Right
Definitions and Contacts
Some Canadian Highlights
Continuing Issues
De-MYTHifing the myths
The challenge

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