educate them about these issues .
But education is not enough . Our political reps have to manage so many different issues and interests that it often takes significant pressure to push one near the top of the pile . That is why it is essential to raise our voices and build the momentum to force the hand of those with power to make better laws and policies .
It is also why I think it is so important that people come together and are supportive of one another , consolidating our power as advocates rather than competing within a movement .
How can individuals , businesses , and the community at large get involved and support the work of BC Disability and the disability community in British Columbia ?
When it comes to BC Disability , please spread the word . Share the website and if you have the means you can also donate to the funding of the Vancouver Community Pocketbook – the book is given out for free and one hundred percent of every donation goes to printing costs . You can visit my personal website SpencerV . ca to get your own free copy .
But in general , there are many ways to make an impact : volunteer with a disability-related organization , speak to your elected representatives or at public consultations , share the stories of people with disabilities , write letters to the editor , educate your friends and family , attend rallies and events supporting more inclusive communities , call out injustice or accessibility when you see it , sign and share petitions .
Even a little gesture can go a long way .
Share with us your other interests and advocacy efforts outside of disabilities .
Certainly ! I don ’ t consider myself a disability advocate so much as I do a community advocate , with disability justice being a critical aspect of that .
I also do a lot of writing and advocacy on issues like poverty reduction , housing , mental health , and even some local and national history . It is tough to isolate these topics because of all
the interconnection among them – you move one and it changes the position of all the others .
In closing , I ' ll like to add : be kind to each other – we can accomplish more together than if we are divided and bickering .
Read about BC Disability ' s Vancouver Community
Pocketbook here .
To Table of Contents
Accessibilty for All 63