For the first time ever, the students of Red River College’s Disability and Community Support program, together with the Diversity and Immigrant Student Support department, have joined forces to create awareness about the United Nations’ International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Tuesday, Dec. 3.

In 2010, Canada became a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Dec. 3 is a day of celebration where we acknowledge the ever-increasing recognition of the human rights of persons with disabilities.

The government of Manitoba is about to pass accessibility legislation (Bill 26), which is a significant step toward eliminating barriers, in terms of both physical access and economic opportunity. These decisions show real progress toward greater inclusion for people with disabilities.

This day, however, also reminds us there are still many barriers that need to be broken in terms of education, employment, healthcare, transportation, housing and social support systems. At present, many persons with disabilities in Manitoba still experience marginalization or exclusion from the activities of daily life.

The theme of this year’s day is, ‘Break barriers, open doors: for an inclusive society for all’. The students involved in this event are hoping to increase awareness about disability and about the range of current issues and developments. They believe that everyone’s contribution is needed if we are to make the world a better place.

On Dec. 3, join us for a Disability Awareness Lunch-hour Blitz at the Notre Dame Campus, where you can visit a display in the north library hall, or chat with students from the Disability and Community Support program as they hand out materials and stickers.