December 3rd marks the
International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), a day to celebrate achievements, reflect on challenges, and inspire action toward creating a more inclusive society. This year, Abilities Centre proudly launched the
Access Perspectives Coffee Chat, an initiative designed to foster meaningful conversations with leaders, changemakers, and individuals with lived experience who are committed to building a barrier-free Canada.
During our inaugural chat, Rick Waters and Sarah Moore shared powerful insights that aligned with this year’s United Nations theme: “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.” Rick reminded us that “there already are people in these leadership roles, but let’s amplify that,” while Sarah emphasized the importance of reflection and creating space for growth.
Both guests highlighted how conversations—formal or informal—are catalysts for change. As Rick noted, “start to see the abilities of people rather than the disabilities, and that’s when the magic starts to happen.” By challenging systems, fostering knowledge exchange, and making room for self-reflection, we can collectively build a culture of inclusion.
We invite you to take part in this culture shift by starting your own conversations. Here’s how you can begin:
How to Start Inclusive Conversations
- Listen Actively: Seek out individuals with lived experience and genuinely listen to their stories and insights. Amplify their voices by sharing their perspectives with others.
- Reflect Personally: Take time to assess your own biases and knowledge. Ask yourself how you can better support inclusion in your community or workplace.
- Create Space: Make room for dialogue by organizing discussions, workshops, or informal chats that encourage experiential and knowledge exchange.
- Challenge Assumptions: Question stereotypes and outdated narratives about disabilities. Share resources that promote understanding and empathy.
- Lead by Example: Demonstrate inclusive behaviour in your own actions, inspiring others to do the same.
Join the Conversation
Today, we encourage you to watch the Access Perspectives Coffee Chat on YouTube and share it with your network. Let’s work together to amplify leadership, foster inclusivity, and inspire systemic change. As Sarah Moore beautifully put it, “Today is a reminder to personally reflect on our role and capacity to support individuals with disabilities within our communities.”
Resources to Explore
United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Learn more about this year’s theme and key goals.
Key Goals for Inclusion:
- Promote leadership of persons with disabilities in all areas of life.
- Ensure inclusion in all aspects of society.
- Increase participation in decision-making processes.
- Raise awareness of rights and celebrate achievements.
Together, we can amplify voices, challenge barriers, and create a more inclusive future. Join the conversation today!