Julie Sawchuk’s Post

#TeachableMoment Accessibility Critique: "Help make Ontario public spaces more accessible" Words matter. Before even opening the report, let's start with how bizarre this statement is: 1. "more accessible"? As opposed to fully accessible as per the Act's goal? 2. "public spaces" Despite the fact that the goal of the AODA is to make the entire province fully accessible, not just public spaces. 3. "public spaces" Despite the fact this is the only one of the standards enacted with any built environment/architectural requirements leaving no help for usable accessibility for the employment standard, customer service standard, or the transportation standard. 4. "standard"? While technically under an act the requirements are listed in documents called standards, unfortunately I've seen how the word "standard" is not recognized in industry as legislation because so many other accessible design guidelines are called standards but are optional. e.g. Facility Accessibility Design Standards (FADS) 5. And finally, at least for this post, DYK these built environment/architecture design standard requirements that exist outside of the Ontario Building Code are not only not mentioned in the code but are also not being checked by municipalities for site plan approvals, building permits, and occupancy permits? Strangely, without enforcement what little is required often doesn't appear in new buildings and spaces. Enforcement matters too. #AccessibleCanada #AODAfail #AODA #accessibility #AccessibilityCritique #disability #inclusion #AMA #NSAA #ABCA #NLAA #ASA #architecture #InteriorDesign #LandscapeArchitecture #UrbanPlanning #design #Construction #permits #legislation #onpoli #cdnpoli

Happy National AccessAbility Week! This week, from May 26 to June 1, 2024, under the theme “Forward Together: accessibility and inclusion for all”, we celebrate the invaluable contributions of Canadians with disabilities and the dedicated individuals who actively work to remove barriers, ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of Canadian society. As we celebrate AccessAbility Week, we also take this opportunity to recognize and raise awareness of the intersectional factors between disability, accessibility, race, and gender. Black individuals with disabilities often face compounded challenges and discrimination, making it of utmost importance for us to address these issues holistically in our workplaces and to transform our ways of working to better serve all Canadians. By promoting the engagement and inclusion of Black Canadians with disabilities and fostering their advancement and well-being, we can create a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. To learn more about a Black-led, Black-serving, and Black-focused organization undertaking this work in Canada, please visit: Ase Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities https://lnkd.in/gQu7Pg44 For more information on accessibility in the federal public service #GC, please visit: https://lnkd.in/dEWe5Bq  www.canada.ca/accessiblegc #NAAW2024 #NationalAccessAbilityWeek #AccessibleGC #AccesibilityAwareness #inclusive

Celebrating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) 🎉 Today, we celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a reminder of the importance of breaking barriers and fostering accessibility. This year’s theme, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,” calls on us to act. In Canada, the Accessible Canada Act envisions a barrier-free nation by 2040. But progress depends on all of us. How can we help build a more inclusive world? • Educate ourselves about accessibility and inclusivity • Advocate for barrier-free workplaces and communities • Support and amplify the voices of persons with disabilities • Challenge stereotypes and foster understanding Let’s work together to create a world where no one is left behind. 🌍💪 #IDPD #Inclusion #Accessibility #Diversity #DisabilityAwareness #BarrierFree #AccessibleCanada #Leadership #Sustainability

🌍 My office view today at the United Nations! 🇺🇳 I'm grateful to be at the Civil Society Forum, part of the 17th Conference of States Parties (COSP17) to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). What is the Civil Society Forum? The Civil Society Forum, hosted by the Civil Society Coordination Mechanism (CSCM) and facilitated by the International Disability Alliance, is a crucial event that amplifies the voices and participation of persons with disabilities. This forum adopts a "People’s Assembly" or Townhall meeting format, ensuring an open and participatory platform for all. Why is this important? Inclusion Canada is here to ensure that the rights and needs of Canadians with intellectual disabilities are represented in these vital discussions. The forum addresses three key themes: -International cooperation to promote technology innovations and transfer for an inclusive future. -Persons with disabilities in situations of risk and humanitarian emergencies. -Promoting the rights of persons with disabilities to decent work and sustainable livelihood. Each session allows civil society organizations and organizations of persons with disabilities to present statements, make interventions, and call to action on these topics. This participation is crucial as it directly influences the global policies and practices that affect the lives of persons with disabilities worldwide. - - - #COSP17 #DisabilityRights #Advocacy #UnitedNations

New Guidelines for Disability-Inclusive Budgeting in Montenegro On July 1, 2024, Montenegro released the CRPD-Compliant Disability-Inclusive Budgeting Guidelines to support authorities in implementing effective disability-inclusive budgeting (CCDIB). Tailored to Montenegro’s context, these guidelines align with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and integrate insights from international human rights treaties. Developed with financial support from the Partnership on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD), this initiative, implemented by UNICEF, UNDP, and the Resident Coordinator’s Office, aims to enhance inclusion for persons with disabilities in public budgeting processes. Explore more: https://shorturl.at/kkyJG UNDP United Nations UNICEF #CRPD  #UNDP #UNICEF

In the journey to create a truly inclusive society, open and constructive dialogue is crucial. This year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities shines a spotlight on the People and the Arrest Agenda and the ongoing work to draft a National Disability Act. By bringing together diverse stakeholders—government officials, advocacy groups, donors, community leaders, and persons with disabilities themselves—Liberia is taking a significant step towards legislation that recognizes, protects, and empowers every citizen, regardless of ability. Such a dialogue fosters collaboration, builds understanding, and ensures that policies are truly reflective of the needs and rights of persons with disabilities. This is more than just a conversation; it's a foundation for meaningful, systemic change that prioritizes accessibility, dignity, and equality. Together, we can build a Liberia where every voice is valued, every barrier is addressed, and everyone has a place at the table. #IDPD2024 #DialogueForChange #InclusionMatters #NationalDisabilityAct

This Friday, December 13th, the Bubi community in Matabeleland North will be celebrating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, albeit a bit delayed from the global celebrations on December 3rd. The 2024 theme, "Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future," is a powerful reminder that true progress is only possible when persons with disabilities have a seat at the table. As we celebrate, we must also acknowledge the human rights violations that persons with disabilities face daily. From inaccessible infrastructure to discriminatory policies, these barriers prevent persons with disabilities from fully participating in society. In Zimbabwe and the region, efforts are being made to address these challenges. Organizations are working to promote accessibility, inclusive education, and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities. As Martine Abel-Williamson, President of the World Blind Union, so aptly put it, "Leadership isn’t just about being at the table—it’s about having a voice that’s heard and respected". Let us amplify the voices of persons with disabilities and work towards creating a more inclusive and sustainable future for all. #InternationalDayOfPersonsWithDisabilities #IDPD2024 #Inclusion #Accessibility #DisabilityRights

Today, I had the privilege of attending BRAC’s event in honor of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The narratives shared were both inspiring and eye-opening. Listening to the challenges faced by persons with disabilities—ranging from accessing basic banking services to effective communication—underscored the persistent barriers in our society. What stood out most were the remarkable stories of resilience and achievement. Individuals who have overcome adversity to reach significant milestones in life reminded us all that talent and potential are not limited by physical abilities. Their voices call for one thing: opportunities. As a society, we must strive to create inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. This event reaffirmed my commitment to advocating for equitable opportunities for persons with disabilities. Let us move beyond awareness to actionable change, ensuring that everyone is empowered to realize their fullest potential. #Inclusion #DisabilityAwareness #InternationalDayOfPersonsWithDisabilitie

🌟 National AccessAbility Week: May 26 to June 1, 2024 🌟 As we celebrate National AccessAbility Week, let's reflect on the importance of accessibility and inclusion. This year's theme, "Forward Together: Accessibility and Inclusion for All," emphasizes the collective effort needed to build a barrier-free Canada. Here are some ways to contribute: 📚 Educate Yourself: Understand the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the importance of accessibility in various aspects of life. Check out resources from the Rick Hansen Foundation (@RickHansenFdn) and the Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work (@CCRW). 🗣 Advocate for Change: Speak up for accessible environments and policies. Support organizations like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance (@AODAAlliance) that are dedicated to advocating for accessibility legislation and enforcement. 🤝 Engage in Inclusive Practices: Incorporate inclusive practices into your everyday life, whether it's ensuring your events are accessible to all attendees or advocating for accessible transportation options in your community. Use our checklists for websites, meetings, and workspaces under our infographics. 🔊 Amplify Voices: Listen to and share the stories of those with disabilities, as well as organizations and activists working toward greater accessibility and inclusion. The Neil Squire Society is a Canadian organization dedicated to empowering people with disabilities through technology and employment programs. Follow them (@NeilSquireSoc) to learn about their innovative initiatives and success stories. Let’s move "Forward Together" for a more inclusive future! 🌍✨ https://lnkd.in/dEWe5Bq #NAAW2024 #AccessibleCanada #PWD #Inclusion

"Nothing About Us Without Us." This year’s #IDPD #DisabilityDay theme, "Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future", highlights the pivotal role of persons with disabilities in shaping a more accessible and inclusive world. As Hannes Juhlin Lagrelius, Programme Specialist for Inclusive & Accessible Urban Development at the World Blind Union, explains, the participation of persons with disabilities in urban governance and development is essential to breaking misconceptions and ensuring no one is left behind. Today, we honor the leadership of persons with disabilities in advancing rights, fostering inclusion, and building a sustainable future for all. Find out more: https://lnkd.in/dsjgTkhy #ItAllStartsTogether United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs