On December 3, people around the world are asked to observe the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. First proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations, this day promotes the need for widespread understanding of disability issues while garnering support for the rights, dignity, and well-being of persons with disabilities everywhere.

The theme for this year’s observance is: “Promoting the participation of persons with disabilities and their leadership: taking action on the 2030 Development Agenda.” An accessible future is something we, as a province, must think about. Something we all have a responsibility to work towards and, in turn, to ensure that “no one is left behind.”

According to the 2017 Canadian Survey on Disability (see infographic below), there are currently 196,260 people in Saskatchewan who report having a disability. Many of these people face barriers in the workplace, in schools, and in society. It is imperative that we work together to understand the issues and endeavour to create a future that is free of environmental, attitudinal, and systemic barriers.

*Source: 2017 Canadian Survey on Disability (https://www.statcan.gc.ca/eng/survey/household/3251)