By: Gabriella Rabaa
Canadians who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision represent an important reserve of ambitious, skilled, and capable people who can make a greater contribution to the country's economy – but only with the right training, adaptive technology, and connections to employers. That’s why CNIB launched a national advocacy campaign during the recent federal election to ensure the next federal government prioritizes employment opportunities and supports for Canadians with disabilities, so that skilled and qualified individuals living with sight loss can live to their full potential while supporting economic growth and filling workforce gaps.
Throughout the federal election campaign period, we reached out to candidates across the country from each major Party and wrote to Party Leaders seeking their commitment to work with CNIB and ensure Canadians with sight loss have the opportunities they want to participate in Canada’s workforce for years to come. You can read the responses we received on our website.
Additionally, CNIB hosted a candidates debate on disability issues alongside 12 other major disability organizations; and partnered with Elections Canada to provide training sessions and information about the voting process and accessibility tools and services provided by Elections Canada.
With the election over and a new minority Liberal government in place, our work is only beginning! In this mandate, CNIB will continue holding the government accountable to their campaign promises and use the momentum from this campaign to push for:
- Equitable economic and labour market opportunities for Canadians who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision
- Investments in accessible employment supports and programs connecting job seekers with disabilities and employers
- Initiatives to ensure Canadians who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision have access to the education, skills training, and technology they need to find and maintain meaningful employment
To learn more about our activities during the federal election, and to stay up to date with future election campaigns, visit cnib.ca/election