Culture and Disability Presented by: Traicy Robertson Society for Manitobans with Disabilities

What to expect…. We will spend some time looking at what makes us who we are. We will examine the concept of culture and how it impacts a persons view / experience of disability. We will take a brief look at the issues faced by DHH refugee and newcomer children.

A closer look at culture

Culture An integrated pattern of human behaviour which includes, but is not limited to: Communication Religion Roles Family It is the ability to transmit the above to succeeding generations, it is dynamic in nature.

Ethno-Cultural Program The Ethno-Cultural program works with newcomers with disabilities, whose first language is not English, and helps them navigate the health and social services systems.

Program Focus Refugees and Newcomers who have a disability Adults, children and their families Rehabilitation Quality of life challenges

Our Team 8 Cultural Resource Facilitators ( AKA Cultural Brokers) with individuals from Ethno cultural Communities Afghanistan China Ethiopia Philippines India Somalia Sudan Vietnam

Program Goals Persons with disabilities from ethnic communities will have equitable access to programs and services they need to maintain their independence Service providers will be sensitive to the needs of individuals with disabilities of ethnic origin and the related needs of their communities Ethno cultural communities will be more aware of and more understanding of the resources and services available to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities, who are members of their communities

Community Partners Settlement Agency Case Manager Health care provider

Differences between the refugee and immigrant experience: Pre-planning Research Survival and protection

Educational approaches: Need to consider optimal age of language acquisition Pedagogical misconceptions

Role of the family Misconceptions around ASL The Role of the school The role of parents in school partnerships

Considerations for service providers: Build relationships Factor in adequate time Family involvement and decision maker roles “Perceived” confidentiality Be sensitive to “indirect” communication styles

Discussion and Questions

Traicy Robertson Supervisor EthnoCultural Program SMD Phone: 204 975-3121 Email: Trobertson@smd.mb.ca