I AM CANADIAN

In 2012 Monika Huizenga stated that one of her goals was to become a Canadian citizen.  Since that time, we have been assisting Monika achieve her goal, surmounting several obstacles with Monika’s encouragement and insistence. 

When I discussed her goal with her she stated that she wanted to be an “official” Canadian because she had lived here since she was just one year old after immigrating with her family from Bangladesh.  Monika said she loved Canada and feels safe and proud to call it her country.  Monika’s family are very happy for her.

Monika was elated to finally take part in the Citizenship Ceremony on February 21, 2017.  We travelled to Scarborough to attend the ceremony at 8:30am, and Monika had been up and eagerly waiting to go at 5:30am filled with anticipation.  When I picked her up she said, “This is my big day!”. 

Monika smiled throughout the ceremony and beamed with pride.  She had been practicing reciting the oath for a few weeks and when the time arrived, she repeated it with dignity and perfection.  At the closing of the ceremony, as Monika waved her Canadian flag, her voice rang out distinctly as she sang Oh Canada.  Congratulations Monika!!!!!

If Inclusion Means Everyone, Why Not Me?

ARCH Disability Law Centre, in partnership with Community Living Ontario, Inclusive Education Canada, the University of Western Ontario, and Brock University, is announcing the launch of new research titled “If Inclusion Means Everyone, Why Not Me?”. We are currently conducting a survey on the experiences of students with intellectual disabilities in Ontario’s public school system. The focus of this survey is on many of the current practices and barriers related to inclusive education.

WHY ARE WE DOING THIS?

In Ontario, there are 72 Boards of Education. Seven of those boards operate fully segregated schools for children who have a disability. In the remaining school boards, a significant number (approximately 80 – 85%) continue to segregate students through self-contained classes where they spend the majority of the day.

HOW CAN YOU HELP? 

We would ask that you lend your support to this initiative either by filling out the survey if it applies to your family and by sharing it with your networks. The greater the participation in this survey, the more we will be able to illuminate the barriers to inclusion. If you wish to participate, please complete a short survey that asks questions about your child’s experiences in school. The survey will take 20-30 minutes to complete. You will have a month to complete the survey on the same computer. Once it has been submitted, you cannot redo the survey. If you have any questions or concerns please contact Amina Patel, Assistant Project Coordinator, Community Development, Community Living Ontario at 416-447-4348 ext. 241 or [email protected].

The survey can be completed here:

https://uwo.eu.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_250xUkF2YLFV0rj 

Ground Breaking Caledon Library Partnership Featured at Ontario Library Super Conference

Public libraries play a vital role in bringing communities together to instil a sense of belonging for all.  At last week’s Ontario Library Conference, Caledon Library presented its “Library Living” initiative.  This unique program is theme-based and features stories, music, guest speakers, crafts, games, library orientations, and book talks.  Another example of Caledon Library’s leadership in promoting a welcoming and inclusive community.   Check out the video.

https://www.facebook.com/CaledonPublicLibrary/videos/10154255542373344/