O boy and look what just blew into town!
Correct: September! And now it’s time to say so long to summer and hello to fall.
For this week, our esteemed president, Donna J. Jodhan, expresses her views on how some Canadian federal governments handle emergency situations.
This is a must-read and Donna invites you to send your thoughts to her at info@sterlingcreations.ca.
I’m Christian Robicheau, wishing you a pleasant weekend.
Ensuring Inclusion for All Canadians During Emergencies
by Donna J. Jodhan
Every Canadian has a right to be included whenever there is an emergency. This principle is fundamental to the Canadian ethos, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their abilities, receives equal access to services, information, and products.
The rights of Canadians with disabilities are enshrined in law, guaranteeing them the same protections and considerations as those without disabilities. But is Canada doing enough to ensure this?
Equal Rights to Services, Information, and Products
In times of emergency, access to critical information and services can mean the difference between life and death. For Canadians with disabilities, this access is not just a matter of convenience but a fundamental right.
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Accessible Canada Act are two key pieces of legislation that protect these rights. They mandate that all services, information, and products be accessible to everyone, ensuring that no one is left behind in a crisis.
Is Canada Doing Enough?
Despite these legal protections, there are concerns about whether Canada is fully upholding these commitments. Various reports and testimonies from individuals with disabilities indicate that gaps still exist.
During emergencies, such as natural disasters or health crises, there have been instances where critical information was not provided in accessible formats. Additionally, emergency services and shelters have sometimes been inadequately equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Legislation at Risk
If Canada fails to ensure equal access for all citizens during emergencies, it risks infringing upon several key pieces of legislation:
- The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms: Section 15 of the Charter guarantees equality rights and protection from discrimination. Failure to provide accessible services and information during emergencies can be seen as a violation of these rights.
- The Accessible Canada Act (ACA): Enacted in 2019, the ACA aims to make Canada barrier-free by 2040. It requires organizations under federal jurisdiction to identify, remove, and prevent barriers to accessibility. Non-compliance during emergencies could be a breach of this act.
- The Emergency Management Act: This act outlines the federal government’s responsibilities in emergency management, including the coordination of emergency responses and ensuring the safety of all Canadians. Ensuring accessibility is an inherent part of this mandate.
Actions for Canadians with Disabilities
Canadians with disabilities can take several actions to ensure their rights are protected and their needs are met during emergencies:
- Advocate for Inclusive Policies: Engage with policymakers and advocacy groups to push for more stringent enforcement of accessibility laws and the inclusion of specific provisions for emergency situations.
- Participate in Emergency Planning: Get involved in local emergency planning committees to ensure that the needs of people with disabilities are considered and addressed.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest information on accessibility rights and emergency preparedness. Utilize resources from organizations such as the Canadian Human Rights Commission and local disability advocacy groups.
- Report Barriers: If you encounter barriers to accessing services or information during an emergency, report these issues to the relevant authorities. This can help identify gaps and improve future responses.
- Build Personal Preparedness Plans: While systemic changes are essential, having a personal emergency preparedness plan can provide an additional layer of security. Ensure that you have necessary supplies, a communication plan, and a network of support in place.
Conclusion
Ensuring that every Canadian, including those with disabilities, is included and protected during emergencies is not just a legal obligation but a moral one. While Canada has made significant strides in promoting accessibility and inclusion, there is still work to be done. By advocating for inclusive policies, participating in emergency planning, staying informed, reporting barriers, and building personal preparedness plans, Canadians with disabilities can help ensure their rights are upheld and their needs are met in times of crisis.
My two cents’ worth for today.
To learn more about me as an award-winning sight-loss coach and advocate, visit www.donnajodhan.com
