By: Meghan Mahon
In May, CNIB launched an Indigenous Advisory Committee, a vital step in advancing reconciliation and promoting equity for Indigenous Peoples impacted by blindness.
The committee is made up of Indigenous Peoples who have lived experience with blindness or low vision, either personally or through someone close to them. Their unique perspectives at the intersection of Indigenous identity and vision loss inform and enrich CNIB's efforts across the country.
The committee plays a crucial role in guiding CNIB's work, as outlined in its Reconciliation strategy, "Reconciliation – The Way Forward." This strategy aims to "deliver innovative programs and powerful advocacy across the country to empower First Nations, Inuit and Métis people impacted by blindness to live their dreams and tear down barriers to inclusion."
Through ongoing guidance, feedback, and recommendations, the Indigenous Advisory Committee ensures CNIB's programs, policies, and practices are rooted in Indigenous worldviews and experiences. A key responsibility of the committee is to support the implementation of CNIB's Reconciliation Action Plan, aligning with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's 94 Calls to Action.
To date, the committee has advised on expanding outreach, building awareness within Indigenous communities, and shaping programs that address gaps in services for Indigenous Peoples living with sight loss.