Dear Sisters and Brothers,
The International Day for Persons with Disabilities is observed on December 3 each year to promote awareness of disability issues and the abilities of people with disability.
Over one billion people, or approximately 15 per cent of the world’s population, live with some form of disability. Despite this staggering number, persons with disabilities don’t have equal access to society or services, including education, employment, health care, transportation, political participation or justice.
A recent BMO survey found that while 30 per cent of disabled Canadians are able and wanting to work, they are almost twice as likely to be unemployed as people who do not have a disability. It also found that 48 per cent of Canadians believe a person is more likely to be hired or promoted if they hide their disability.
PSAC is dealing with these issues head-on with the “Accommodation: It’s a Right!” campaign. Employers are obligated to identify and remove barriers in the workplace under the duty to accommodate. Stickers, posters and pamphlets will be sent out to Locals to promote this campaign.
We must keep working to remove barriers andcreate an inclusive and accessible society for all. Show your support by holding discussions in your workplace to promote awareness, recognizing contributions made by persons with disabilities, and finding innovative ways to implement change in your workplace and your community.
In Solidarity,
Marianne Hladun
Regional Executive Vice-President
Public Service Alliance of Canada, Prairies