The Members with Disabilities Access Committee (MDAC) in conjunction with the Indigenous Action Circle (IAC) in the National Capital Region (NCR) is pleased to announce and recognize Indigenous Disability Awareness Month (IDAM). IDAM is celebrated every November in Canada, marking a significant time to recognize and honor the contributions of Indigenous peoples living with disabilities. Initiated by the British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS) in 2015, IDAM aims to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by Indigenous peoples with disabilities and to celebrate their achievements and contributions to society.
In 2024, IDAM will celebrate its 10th anniversary, a milestone that underscores the importance of this awareness month. Indigenous peoples in Canada experience a disability rate significantly higher than the national average, with some estimates suggesting rates up to three times higher in certain age groups. This disparity highlights the need for focused attention and action to address the barriers and discrimination that Indigenous peoples with disabilities often face.
IDAM is not only about raising awareness but also about celebrating the resilience and contributions of Indigenous peoples with disabilities. Despite the challenges they face, many Indigenous individuals with disabilities make significant contributions to their communities, both socially and economically. By recognizing and celebrating these contributions, IDAM helps to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all Canadians.
Please join us in acknowledging and recognizing the very first PSAC-NCR IDAM sensitization and outreach campaign.
Thank you! Miigwech!
Karen Kenniphaas Lester Bear & Sonya Driscoll
Chair, MDAC Co-Chairs, IAC