Strategies for social change: harnessing the Convention Honouring the Convention: A Call to Action in BC Disability Advisory Committee of the Community Legal Assistance Society Vancouver, December 10, 2010 Michael J. Prince

2 What the Convention offers the disability community Modern understanding of disability with attention to economic and social contexts Positive language of human rights, freedoms and human dignity Large agenda of issues and activities across groups and the life-span Formal commitments for actions by governments to ensure full and effective participation

3 Using the Convention To promote and uphold equality and human rights To raise and shape public awareness To monitor and evaluate existing policies and programs To guide legal challenges and court decisions To make claims on public authorities to protect and promote the rights of all persons

4 Working with others BC government and public service Professional associations: teachers, doctors, social workers, etc. Business and employer groups Employment service providers Community non-profit sector agencies Families Self-advocates Anti-poverty movement Colleges and universities

5 In calling for action on: Modernizing income benefit systems Expanding supportive and customized employment programs and services Promoting workplace accommodations Introducing a comprehensive anti- poverty strategy for all British Columbians

6 Thank you Michael J. Prince Lansdowne Professor of Social Policy Faculty of Human and Social Development University of Victoria Disabling Poverty and Enabling Citizenship CURA citizenship