International Day of Persons with Disabilities – Defence Team Champions Message

November 29, 2024 - Defence Stories

The annual International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed on December 3rd. Established by the United Nations in 1992, IDPD promotes the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. It is a day to raise awareness of the barriers faced by persons with disabilities and to advocate for the full and equal participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society.

The 2022 Canadian Survey on Disability shows that 27% of Canadians aged 15 years or older, or 8 million people, have one or more disabilities, and that 72% of people with disabilities experience barriers to accessibility in their day to day lives. IDPD is a chance to reflect on how society can better understand the experiences and contributions of persons with disabilities, while making a commitment to address systemic and attitudinal barriers to accessibility in our workplace.

To mark IDPD, all Defence Team members are invited to join us on Monday, December 2, 2024 from 1:30 – 3pm EST for a panel discussion that will focus on "Debunking Myths: Highlighting Systemic and Attitudinal Barriers in the Defence Team". You can participate in person at Carling campus (building 10 cafeteria) or online to learn about how to make the Defence Team more accessibility inclusive. Information about the event can be found on the IDPD webpage.

To amplify the Defence Team's ongoing commitment to remove barriers to accessibility we would also like to highlight the NEW Defence Team Accessibility Feedback and Request Form. The form is available to all Defence Team members as well as the public. Feedback is welcome on Defence Team accessibility plans, progress reports, or any barriers experienced when interacting with our institution’s services, programs, policies, practices, or events. All feedback will help to improve accessibility within the Defence Team by identifying gaps and accessibility best practices. Requests for documents and products in alternate formats or requests for locating accessibility-related resources can also be submitted via the webform. You can contact the Defence Team Accessibility Office at DND_Accessibility-Accessibilite_MDN@forces.gc.ca with any questions.

Let’s continue to work together so that everyone can participate fully, equally, and effectively in our workplace.