By: Gabriella Rabaa
On September 25, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) began a nationwide strike in response to the federal government's announcement of changes to mail service delivery.
The disruption of mail delivery has significant implications for people who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision, as many rely on Canada Post to receive alternate format materials, CNIB cards, mobility devices like white canes and magnifiers, and other essential items.
Recognizing the impacts of mail disruptions on our community, CNIB quickly mobilized to highlight the disproportionate effects of mail service disruptions for people who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision, and to call for the implementation of safeguards to protect the Literature for the Blind program and at-home delivery accommodations.
CNIB wrote to Canada Post and the Government of Canada, emphasizing the critical need to maintain accessible mail services, and amplified our message through social media.
As of October 11, CUPW shifted the nationwide strike to rotating regional strikes, where Canada Post workers will only be striking in certain areas at one time. Mail services have since resumed, but delays and disruptions are still expected as rotating strikes continue.
For more information about our advocacy efforts and how the Canada Post strike may impact CNIB services, read CNIB’s news release on the Canada Post strike.
If you would like to share your concerns with Canada Post about accessible mail delivery services, you can call their General Enquiries number at 1-866-607-6301 or send an email to accessibility@canadapost.ca.