Podcasts about canada disability benefit

LOOK OUT - Goose crossing ahead! Not all take kindly to the following of directions. Communication takes practice. Patience is needed to get where you'd like to be. Last week was National Accessibility Week (beginning on the final Sunday of May) and this time on Outlook (where “accessibility” is a given) we discuss the unhelpful helpers, how we orient ourselves, plus goose crossings and fermented mushrooms. This first Mixed Bag of June we're talking what's in store for these warmer months ahead including Pride celebrations, as we examine our gratitude toward those, in other marginalised communities, who come before us in all this disability community's diverse group and anticipating a new show reboot of the animated King of the Hill with the importance of understanding modern relevance vs a snapshot from a previous generation. Also, we touch on and go over the eager waiting for this month's announced applications to open up to qualify for the new Canada Disability Benefit and speaking of federal government, with Canada's new federal cabinet (and Mark Carney at the helm) doing the “Cabinet Shuffle” by eliminating the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons With Disabilities. Happy Indigenous History Month and Pride Month to our First Nations, Metis, and Inuit and 2SLGBTQIA+ friends and listeners - from May mixed bags to June, toward the strawberry moon, and celebrating kidney transplant anniversaries during this summer season.

It's been a big month in Canadian politics. With the election of Prime Minister Mark Carney and the rollout of his new cabinet, there's a lot to unpack. While the Liberals and Conservatives surged at the polls, smaller progressive parties like the NDP and the Greens saw their support take a hit — raising big questions about what comes next for progressive politics in Canada.   That was the topic of this month's Off the Hill panel. We looked at what lies ahead — both on and off Parliament Hill — for the NDP and the Green Party. How can progressives keep pushing key policies forward? And how do we organize and stay active in a political landscape that's shifting toward the centre? This month we were joined by Mike Morrice, former Green Party MP for Kitchener Centre; Joel Harden, former Ontario NDP MPP and federal candidate in Ottawa Centre; poet, educator, and activist El Jones; and Karl Nerenberg, rabble.ca's senior parliamentary reporter. About our guests  After being elected as the first-ever Green MP in Ontario, Mike Morrice served as a Member of Parliament from 2021 to 2025 Ontario's first Green MP, championed disability rights, climate action, and housing affordability. He pushed for the Canada Disability Benefit, fair housing policy, and corporate tax reforms. Morrice also advocated for electoral reform and a windfall tax on fossil fuel profits to fund climate and affordability solutions. Before politics, he founded Sustainable Waterloo Region and Green Economy Canada. Joel Harden is a lifelong community organizer who represented Ottawa Centre in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario from 2018 to 2025 as a member of the Ontario New Democratic Party. During his time at Queen's Park, Harden served as the party's Critic for Transit and Active Transportation, where he championed accessible, affordable, and sustainable public transit solutions across the province.  El Jones is a poet, author, journalist, professor and activist living in Halifax. She is the author of Abolitionist Intimacies (2022) and Live from the Afrikan Resistance! (2014). Karl Nerenberg is an award-winning journalist, broadcaster and filmmaker, working in both English and French languages. He is rabble's senior parliamentary reporter. If you like the show please consider subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you find your podcasts. And please, rate, review, share rabble radio with your friends — it takes two seconds to support independent media like rabble. Follow us on social media across channels @rabbleca. 

The Canada Disability Benefit is new monthly benefit that received royal assent on June 22, 2023 whose goal was to reduce poverty and support the financial security of working-age persons with disabilities. However, with the recent announcement that this Benefit will only provide a supplementary benefit of up to $200 a month, it has received pushback from the disability community. Rob and Ryan welcome Janet Rodriguez from Disability Without Poverty to discuss why the $200 monthly federal benefit falls short of the $27,000 annual income needed to live above the poverty line before diving into a discussion about the need for self-advocacy, cross-disability solidarity, and systemic change to address ableism and improve support systems. Show Transcript https://atbanter.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/at-banter-podcast-episode-408-discussing-the-canada-disability-benefit.pdf Show Notes Disability Without Poverty https://www.disabilitywithoutpoverty.ca/ AT Banter is brought to you by Canadian Assistive Technology, providing sales and training in Assistive Technology and Accessibility with over 30 years of knowledge and experience. Visit them online at www.canasstech.com or call toll-free 1-844-795-8324 or visit their Assistive Technology Showroom at 106 – 828 West 8th Avenue, Vancouver. Need repairs on your device? Chaos Technical Services offers service and support on almost any piece of Assistive Technology, while also providing parts and batteries. Visit them online at www.chaostechnicalservices.com or call 778-847-6840.

South Korea's president says he will lift martial law in the country hours after it was announced. President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law late Tuesday local time, vowing to eliminate "anti-state" forces but faced opposition to the move from parliament. We hear more about how the situation could affect trade with Canada and B.C. Then After 12:30, the advocacy group Disability Without Poverty has given Canada an "F" grade in its second annual Disability Report Card and is calling on the government to triple the Canada Disability Benefit in 2025. We're asking our listeners to weigh in and share their stories.

Alexi White is director of systems change at Maytree. He leads the organization's efforts to change social systems so that they respect, protect, and fulfill everyone's economic and social rights Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We revisit our recent conversation with Krista Carr of Inclusion Canada who shared their recommendations for changes to the federal Canada Disability Benefit.

What does the law say about rescuing dogs from hot cars? Grant Hardy has more on trending headlines. Violet Affleck is speaking out about the continued importance of masking. Corinne Van Dusen has the details on our Entertainment Report. The president of a Quebec non-profit is leading the charge to expand service animal funding to include those on the autism spectrum. Laura Bain shares that story and more on The Buzz. Vic Pereira shares some must-see highlights for Winnipeg's upcoming Fringe Fest including “Captain Ted: Disabled Pirate”, a new comedy by the Strokes of Genius. Audio Describer JJ Hunt checks in from the Toronto Islands with a look at the history, landscape, and iconic Toronto skyline. We revisit our recent conversation with Krista Carr of Inclusion Canada who shared their recommendations for changes to the federal Canada Disability Benefit.

We speak with Krista Carr of Inclusion Canada who shares their recommendations for changes to the federal Canada Disability Benefit. Press release from Inclusion Canada

Mike Feir shares his review of ‘This is Not a Game', Mark Fennell's exploration of how the internet became a toxic and hostile hotbed of conspiracies. A Montreal man made history while protesting Canada's electoral system. We learn why the independent candidate celebrated his zero votes on What in the World. Can private clinics really cut surgery wait times without hurting public health? Laura Bain explores the impacts of New Brunswick's newest Surgical Eye Centre on The Buzz. From farm-fresh produce to local crafts and specialties, Chef Mary Mammoliti shares her guide to making the most of your local farmer's market this summer! We speak with Krista Carr of Inclusion Canada who shares their recommendations for changes to the federal Canada Disability Benefit. NOW with Dave Brown co-host and producer Alex Smyth shares his take on some trending topics on the Weekly Roundtable!

 Advocates have been hopeful the Canada Disability Benefit would lift people with disabilities out of poverty. But after the federal government posted its proposed regulations last week, many now say there's a long way to go. Haley Flaro of Ability NB will join us.

Newfoundland's youth in private group homes experience several vulnerabilities despite uncontrolled costs. Grant Hardy discusses this on trending headlines. We reach into our archives and revisit a conversation with Laen Herschler. He's the Artistic Director for Theatre Terrific, a production company with a radically inclusive and diverse range of programming. The NDP have proposed changes to Trudeau's Canada Disability Benefit that could delay the program's rollout but vastly expand eligibility. Laura Bain has the details on The Buzz. Winnipeg Community Reporter Vic Pereira tells us how to grab tickets for Ma-buhay; a modern heartwarming Filipino pop-musical for the whole family. Audio Describer JJ Hunt shares his travels through Vietnam and gives us a sonic snapshot of traditional water puppetry. Podcaster Craig Baird joins us to discuss his podcast Canadian History Ex and his passion for our country's past.

Rabia Khedr, director of Disability Without Poverty Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In April the Canada Disability Benefit disappointed many people with disabilities and leaves many below the poverty line. Rabia Khedr discusses her displeasures and where we go from here.

With the rise of pro-Palestinian encampments across North American university campuses, concerns have been raised over police response and safety of Jewish students. ‘The West Block' host Mercedes Stephenson interviews Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities Minister Kamal Khera to discuss the campus protests. Minister Khera also addresses concerns from disability advocates about the Canada Disability Benefit's ability to lift Canadians out of poverty. Plus, Stephenson speaks with former British intelligence officer Philip Ingram about the U.K.'s calls for NATO members to boost their defence spending, geopolitical threats, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nate is joined on this episode by Green MP for Kitchener Centre Mike Morrice for a discussion on the Canada Disability Benefit, the successes and shortcomings of the government's climate plan, and the importance of acting as a voice for one's constituents. Mike was first elected in 2021 and has been a strong local advocate for greater climate action, as well as the need to lift people out of poverty and more meaningfully address wealth inequality. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.uncommons.ca

“Top of the morning to ya,” says friend and boyfriend of co-hosts and siblings Brian and Kerry. We're here on Outlook this week with visiting guest hosts Barry and his guide dog Oyster, fresh from their journey all the way from Ireland. From acquiring a pet passport to a fit-to-fly letter, Barry shares with us the process for travel with a guide dog and both of them are with us for the next few months on air. Alongside talk of travel with a guide dog, we touch on last week's Canadian federal budget announcement about the proposed Canada Disability Benefit, long promised by the Liberal government, but now the news is out that what they are offering is far less than was expected and what would put people with disabilities above the poverty line. So now Canadians with disabilities are not happy and not having it, speaking up where possible and we here are joining the chorus of voices, in a marginalised group often overlooked. In the second part of the show, we speak with Rebecca Singh of Superior Description Services, who we've had on the show last year to learn about what Superior Description does and since then what co-host Kerry has been working on as accessibility consultant. This time Rebecca is back to share with us all about next month's Junior Festival, for children five to twelve, on the campus of the Harbour Front Centre in Toronto. Junior is an arts and creativity festival for young people, running during the weekend of May 18th to the 20th. Sunday, May 19th is set aside as Enhanced Accessibility Day for children with disabilities, blindness and all kinds. There will be offerings such as touch tours, sighted guides if needed, and plenty of audio description available on site and online at the Harbourfront Centre website, described by Rebecca and reviewed by Kerry as consultant. Singh also shares with us another upcoming arts and creativity event she's working on, including podcasts as supplements to the in-person events, this June in the GTA and around Toronto, known as Luminato. So if you're in the area in the coming months, for either one, check out the festivals and events on offer by going to their websites, contacting them by phone, or by email at the links, number, or email address below: harbourfrontcentre.com/junior 416-973-4600 info@harbourfrontcentre.com https://www.luminatofestival.com https://superiordescription.com Listen to Rebecca Singh's previous Outlook appearance: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/outlook-2023-03-06-international-womens-day-with/id1527876739?i=1000603364184

The Canada Disability Benefit has garnered a lot of reaction since the Federal Budget was released last week. Michael Prince weighs in with his thoughts on the budget.

Today on NOW with Dave Brown: social anxiety can be hard to navigate. Shane Baker gives advice on how you can manage through social situations. The Canada Disability Benefit has garnered a lot of reaction since the Federal Budget was released last week. Michael Prince weighs in with his thoughts on the budget. Is it time for Apple to transform their virtual assistant Siri? Kevin Shaw shares his thoughts. Fredericton New Brunswick is introducing bus service on Sundays, that will roll out in June. Should all cities have 24/7 bus service? Marco Pasqua and Elizabeth Mohler give their opinions. This is the April 24, 2024, episode.

On Know Your Rights, Danielle McLaughlin and her guest Senator Kim Pate reflect on the funding announced Tuesday for the Canada Disability Benefit.

Michael Babcock has our Tech Talk, which includes a shout out to his newly purchased audio interface, and a how to guide on using Google Suite tools and features. Toxins in drinking water are associated with severe health issues affecting many communities across the country. Is Canada doing enough to keep drinking water safe? Grant Hardy discusses this and more on our headlines segment. The newest episode of Our Community, NL Deaf Choir, sheds a spotlight on the first choir in the Atlantic provinces whose membership is deaf. We learn more with choir Member Paula Coggins. Ottawa Community Reporter Kim Kilpatrick highlights Rose in the Machine, the story of a mother seeking to understand her daughter living with Autism. And, she gives us updates on new ways to contact Ottawa's para transportation services. Orientation and Mobility Specialist Mark Rankin goes through the O&M scope of practice, discusses how it is changing, and considers how technology will continue to impact the discipline. On Know Your Rights, Danielle McLaughlin and her guest Senator Kim Pate reflect on the funding announced Tuesday for the Canada Disability Benefit.

Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland tabled her latest budget Tuesday, with big spending plans to increase the housing supply, deliver on commitments to Indigenous people, boost funding to the Canadian military and finally deliver on a promise to create a Canada Disability Benefit. But there is more to the budget's $39.3 billion in new spending than just those big ticket items. There is a little bit of money in there for nearly everyone. It is an election budget, with lots of promises, most of which start to kick in next year. And to pay for it all, without sinking further into deficit and blowing past Freeland's debt-to-GDP ratio, the federal government is increasing the inclusion rate on capital gains, affecting business investments and, with some exceptions, those Canadians earning more than $250,000 from capital gains annually. This week on “It's Political,” we'll look at the government's 2024 spending plan and its decision to target capital gains as a way of raising taxes with economists Armine Yalnizyan and Christopher Ragan. But before that discussion, we'll unpack the budget process and look at the last budget, the 2023 budget, and review its forecasts, its promises and what it actually delivered on. Some of the clips this week were sourced from CPAC, WhiteHouse.gov and Right Side Broadcasting. This episode of “It's Political” was produced by Althia Raj and Michal Stein, and mixed by Kevin Sexton. Our theme music is by Isaac Joel. In this episode: Armine Yalnizyan, an economist and Atkinson Fellow on the Future of Workers, Christopher Ragan, the director of McGill University's Max Bell School of Public Policy, Heather Scoffield, senior vice president of strategy at the Business Council of Canada, Yves Giroux, the Parliamentary Budget officer, Tyler Meredith, a senior fellow at the Munk School and former budget crafter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Kevin Page, the president and CEO of the Institute of Fiscal Studies and Democracy at the University of Ottawa, and Evert Lindquist, a University of Victoria School of Public Administration professor. Hosted by Althia Raj.

The federal government announced the Canada Disability Benefit as part of Tuesday's budget. It landed with a thud amongst disability advocates. Jeanne Armstrong spoke to Haley Flaro with Ability New Brunswick.

People with disabilities could receive, at maximum, about $200 a month from the federal government's new Canada Disability Act. But advocates say that isn't nearly enough to help lift people out of poverty. We hear from Nancy Reid, the executive director of the Coalition of Persons with Disabilities NL.

A recent survey shows overwhelming support for the Canada Disability Benefit across party lines, but many doubt the government's ability to implement it effectively. We get that story and more with Grant Hardy. Movie theatres recovering from the pandemic slump and writers' strike are tempting audiences back into seats with new ideas and merchandise. We find out what's on offer with Corinne Van Dusen on the Entertainment Report. After 2017's eclipse, Harvard astronomers set out to improve inclusion for future celestial viewings. Mark Phoenix tells us about the LightSound and other ongoing accessible astronomy projects on The Buzz! We speak with Matt Greenwood, Director and Head Coach of Pickering Football Club about the state of blind soccer in Canada. Registered Nurse, Leslie DePoe shares her advice for navigating and advocating for yourself in Canada's multi-layered healthcare system. As salvage crews begin the cleanup of Baltimore's Key bridge, entrepreneurship expert, Kevin Shaw is asking how well your business is prepared to deal with disaster and emergencies.

A new advocacy campaign is calling on the government to fully fund the Canada Disability Benefit. Neil Hetherington from Daily Bread Food Bank tells you all about it.

Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society.   Justin interviews guest Daily Bread Food Bank CEO Neil Hetherington about the Daily Bread Food Bank, the rapidly accelerating numbers of people with post-secondary education making use of food charity in Toronto, the causes of increasing food insecurity, statistics on food inequity in the context of systemic racism, and how legislative solutions are needed to restore equity in food security. Listen in to learn more about how the culture of your organization can be applied to find solutions to food inequity in your community.   Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:14] Public registration for RISKWORLD 2024 is now open. Explore infinite opportunities with RIMS from May 5th through May 8th, 2024, in San Diego, California. Register at RIMS.org/riskworld. Be thankful that it's a leap year! Advance Registration rates end on February 29th, 2024. [:38] About today's episode of RIMScast. We will be joined by Daily Bread Food Bank CEO Neil Hetherington. We will explore the intersection of risk and hunger. [1:01] The RIMS-CRMP is the only competency-based risk management credential. That matters because earning the certification shows employers and recruiters that you have the skills necessary to manage risk and create value for your organization. [1:17] Several Exam Prep virtual workshops are coming up. On March 19th and 20th, this two-day course will be presented with PARIMA. The next RIMS-CRMP-FED Exam Prep Virtual Workshop will be held from April 2nd through the 4th and led by Joe Mayo. Visit the certification page on RIMS.org for more information. A link is in these show notes. [1:47] If there is a full group of employees in your organization who should earn the RIMS-CRMP, visit RIMS.org/webinars and register for the complimentary webinar, How Deloitte Leveraged the RIMS-CRMP: A Fireside Chat. A link is on this episode's show notes. [2:06] We will have leaders from the RIMS-CRMP Commission as well as leaders from Deloitte, who will speak to why they supported several of their employees in earning the RIMS-CRMP. It will be a relaxed, informational session and a lot of fun. Mark your calendars for March 15th and register! [2:26] We are looking forward to RISKWORLD 2024 in sunny San Diego, California, from May 5th through May 8th, 2024. Public registration is open. Register today at RIMS.org/RISKWORLD and the link in this episode's show notes. Early registration rates are available through February 29th, 2024, brought to you by RIMS and leap year! [2:52] My guest is Neil Hetherington, the CEO of the Daily Bread Food Bank in Toronto, Canada. I had the pleasure of meeting Neil at the ORIMS 2023 year-end luncheon and we had a nice conversation. Recently, The Daily Bread Food Bank released its “Who's Hungry Report 2023” so I thought this would be a great time to extend that dialog. [3:25] We will discuss how food inequity can impact risk managers and the decisions that organizations need to make when hiring. Neil Hetherington, welcome to RIMScast! [4:17] The Daily Bread Food Bank is Canada's largest food bank. It took 38 years to serve one million clients in Toronto in a single year. It took two years to serve two million in a year. In 2023, they served three million. [4:47] There has been exponential growth in the number of individuals who are food insecure. As depressing as that has been, it's been a real joy working with a team that is firmly committed to a mission: What is going on that is requiring individuals to come to a food bank and how can we make a difference? [5:16] In partnership, Daily Bread Food Bank and North York Harvest Food Bank have released Who's Hungry 2023 — an annual profile of food insecurity and poverty in Toronto. Some of the increase in food insecurity may be attributed to the pandemic. Before the pandemic, they were serving about 60,000 a month, holding steady. [5:56] The pandemic happened and the number doubled to 120,000 a month. Then inflation happened and it went to 240,000 a month. In December 2023, it was closer to 300,000. Twelve thousand individuals in Toronto who had never used a food bank signed up for the first time. Unemployment is low but food bank usage is high. [7:12] Food insecurity is rising in Canada, particularly in large cities where affordable housing is at a premium. In Canada, if you are on Disability, you live in poverty. Individuals who are working at two or three part-time jobs don't have health benefits or access to dental care. They are coming to food banks in the fastest-rising numbers. [8:44] What can be done? Affordable housing helps individuals and employers who need workers close to jobs. It is good for legislative bodies to take care of the vulnerable. Individuals on disability should have an income that allows them to buy food. Employers should be given incentives to hire full-time employees with benefits to thrive. [9:55] There's a link to the “Who's Hungry 2023” report in the show notes. The report says, “Systemic racism produces deep inequities with respect to food insecurity in Canada.” Black households are more than 3.5 times more likely, and Indigenous communities are 3 to 5 times more likely to be food insecure than White households. [10:26] “These inequities stem from systemic discrimination that results in Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities facing barriers to education, employment, health care, and social services.” How do we change that reality? [10:55] What are the ways that we can ensure that, first of all, there is no food insecurity, everyone can thrive in the community, and everybody can live in simple, decent, affordable housing? [11:13] Neil says we're pointing out the numbers, in terms of the inequity that is present, and giving legislatures across the country the opportunity to be able to deal and grapple with that problem. [11:38] Neil discusses the changing profile of a client. Fifty-nine percent of individuals using food banks in the Toronto area have a post-secondary education. They've gone to college. They've done everything right. People with this level of education having to make use of food charity is obscene. [12:40] The other changing demographic is individuals who are working but still have to rely on friends, family, and charity to get by. [12:59] The report points to a number of recommendations for changing social policies. [13:26] Neil says the report asks legislators to “Change this, please, eh?” It's an uphill battle. The Daily Bread food bank has a dual mission to feed the need now and talk to every level of government about the opportunity to walk back from the ledge we're on. Neil talks about recent and upcoming presentations of solutions to government leaders. [15:34] The risk to a corporation is not having the right people. Are the employees able to feed their kids, is their mental health OK or do they have massive stressors that are not allowing them to focus on the task at hand? Neil works out an example where $50K is inadequate. Without nearby affordable housing, where will the workforce live?  [18:10] RIMS plug time! RIMS Virtual Workshops: Visit RIMS.org/virtualworkshops to see the full calendar. On March 6th and 7th, our friend Elise Farnham hosts Applying and Integrating ERM. On March 12th and 13th, former RIMS president Chris Mandel hosts, Captives as an Alternate Risk Financing Technique. [18:37] Information about these workshops and others is on the RIMS Virtual Workshops page and a link to the full calendar is in this episode's notes. [18:45] On February 29th, Hub International sponsors Ready for Tomorrow: Protecting Your Profits in the Property Market. On March 7th, in celebration of International Women's Day, Origami Risk leads the session Women of Risk & Compliance: Leading & Learning One Step at a Time. [19:06] Visit RIMS.org/Webinars to learn more about these webinars and to register! Links are in the show notes. Webinar registration is complimentary for RIMS members. [19:20] Quick shout-out to our friends at the Spencer Educational Foundation, which funds the education of next-generation risk management and insurance talent. Spencer's scholarship program is open but coming to a close on March 1st for Ph.D. applicants. [19:35] Spencer's course development grant cycle is entertaining submissions through February 15th. Students and risk management and insurance faculty with interest can visit Spencered.org for additional details. [20:46] Neil talks about the need to have donations year-round. After the holidays, the selves at food banks tend to get sparse. In July and August, kids are home from school and need to be fed. In July and August, the shelves are bare at the Food Bank. Those are difficult times. It's an opportunity for you to give back to the community! [22:14] Justin suggests the hashtag #FoodInFebruary to get social awareness going. [22:57] The pandemic was revealing to a lot of people who saw lines at food banks very soon. The shutdown happened in the third week of March and the lines started getting very long in April. That one acute shock to the system drove people to food charity. [23:35]  It was clear there was a lack of resilience in the population across North America. That should be alarming for legislatures. The Daily Bread Food Bank works hard to raise awareness of food insecurity through media and social media, integrating their research with their food advocacy program. [24:05] Letting donors know the opportunity to divest their wealth into something that will be fantastic for the community, not only feeding the need now but also looking into decreasing those lineups. How do we change the systemic policies that are resulting in individuals having to make use of a food bank? [24:45] You can donate food to any food bank, and it's appreciated. It gives variety to what is distributed to individuals. Bring your company out to volunteer in a food bank. Donating funds allows them to purchase more food at a lower rate. Write a letter to any elected official asking them to tackle food insecurity in the best way they think possible. [25:57] Everybody listening to this podcast, please have a conversation about this tonight with your family at dinner so we heighten awareness and so elected officials know that they are required to and have the authority to make good things happen. [26:50] Any organization that is successful in North America has a detailed plan on how they are contributing to the community. Having an ESG strategy is important if you want younger employees to come to your firm. It's an opportunity for new emerging leaders. Neil quotes Bryan Stevenson — “The opposite of poverty is not wealth but justice.” [27:59] If you're an employer, a community leader, or an elected official, you have the opportunity to spread justice every single day through the work that you're doing and how you are developing the culture within your firm or organization. [28:07] Neil Hetherington, it's been great to see you again. I'm so glad that we had a chance to reconnect. “Who's Hungry Report 2023: A Call to Action From a City in Crisis,” is available right now, it's complimentary, and there's a link in this episode's show notes.  [28:51] Neil hopes people will visit fundthebenefit.ca and push the Canada Disability Benefit. “Thank you to everyone who is that positive changemaker!” [29:31] Special thanks again to Neil Hetherington of the Daily Bread Food Bank for joining us here today on RIMScast. A link to the Daily Bread Food Bank's site and to its “Who's Hungry Report 2023” is in this episode's show notes. Look for the hashtag, #FoodInFebruary. Let's be trendsetters and help people going through a hard time. [30:01] Go to the App Store and download the RIMS App. This is an exclusive members-only benefit with all sorts of RIMS resources and coverage. Everybody loves the RIMS App! [30:26] You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in our show notes. RIMScast has a global audience of risk professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [31:08] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. The RIMS app is a benefit of RIMS membership and is available only for RIMS members! You can find it in the App Store. [31:33] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [31:48] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com, and check out the blog at RiskManagementMonitor.com. Justin Smulison is Business Content Manager at RIMS. You can email Justin at Content@RIMS.org. [32:10] Thank you for your continued support and engagement on social media channels! We appreciate all your kind words. Listen every week! Stay safe!   Mentioned in this Episode: RISKWORLD 2024 — San Diego, CA | May 5 – 8, 2024 NEW FOR MEMBERS! RIMS Mobile App Spencer Educational Foundation Spencer Educational Foundation — Grants Page RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RIMS-CRMP Virtual Workshops 2024 International Risk Manager Survey conducted by FERMA in partnership with PwC FERMA Who's Hungry 2023 Report RIMS Webinars: Ready for Tomorrow: Protecting Your Profits in the Property Market | Sponsored by Hub International | Feb. 29, 2024 Women of Risk & Compliance: Leading & Learning One Step at a Time | Sponsored by Origami Risk | March 7, 2024 Elevating ERM in Federal Agencies: The RIMS-CRMP-FED Explored by Deloitte & Touche LLP and RIMS | March 15, 2024 Recertification: Keep Your RIMS-CRMP Active | Presented by RIMS | March 20, 2024 RIMS.org/Webinars Upcoming Virtual Workshops: See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops RIMS-CRMP Prep Workshops Related RIMScast Episodes: “Diving in with RIMS 2024 President David Arick” “Kicking Off 2024 with RIMS CEO Gary LaBranche” “Scenario Planning with the RIMS SERMC in 2024” “Recipes for Success with Wendy's CRO Bob Bowman” “Equality and the Risk Profession with Elisa Stampf” Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: “Alliant's P&C Outlook For 2024” | Sponsored by Alliant (New!) “Why Subrogation is the New Arbitration” | Sponsored by Fleet Response “Cyclone Season: Proactive Preparation for Loss Minimization” | Sponsored by Prudent Insurance Brokers Ltd. “Subrogation and the Competitive Advantage” | Sponsored by Fleet Response “Cyberrisk Outlook 2023” | Sponsored by Alliant “Chemical Industry: How To Succeed Amid Emerging Risks and a Challenging Market” | Sponsored by TÜV SÜD “Insuring the Future of the Environment” | Sponsored by AXA XL “Insights into the Gig Economy and its Contractors” | Sponsored by Zurich “The Importance of Disaster Planning Relationships” | Sponsored by ServiceMaster   RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars Risk Management Magazine Risk Management Monitor RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RIMS-CRMP Stories — New interview featuring Dr. Lianne Appelt! Spencer Educational Foundation RIMS DEI Council   RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model® RIMS Events App Apple | Google Play RIMS Buyers Guide   Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information.   Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.   Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org.   Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   About our guest Neil Hetherington, Daily Bread Food Bank CEO Tweetables (Edited For Social Media Use): There has been exponential growth in the number of individuals who are food insecure. As depressing as that is, it's a real joy working with a team that is firmly committed to a mission. What is going on that is requiring individuals to come to a food bank? — Neil Hetherington   What are the ways that we can ensure that, first of all, there is no food insecurity, everyone can thrive in community, and everybody can live in simple, decent, affordable housing? Those are the questions. — Neil Hetherington   “The opposite of poverty is not wealth but justice.” — Bryan Stevenson, quoted by Neil Hetherington   If you're an employer, a community leader, or an elected official, you have the opportunity to spread justice every single day through the work that you're doing and how you are developing the culture within your firm or organization. — Neil Hetherington

Meagan Gillmore from Canadian Affairs considers the biggest accessibility issues affecting Canadians this year including: the Canada Disability Benefit, Medical Assistance in Dying, and accessibility legislation in Ontario. From the January 4, 2023, episode.

This week on Sickboy, the fellas sit down with Hubert Van Niekerk, the Interim Executive Director at Every Canadian Counts, an organization dedicated to enhancing services for Canadians with long-term, chronic disabilities. Hubert, with a diverse background spanning construction and education, shares his journey and the organization's mission to establish a national disability insurance plan in Canada. Delving into the intricacies of disability coverage, he sheds light on the differences between the Canada Disability Benefit and a comprehensive national insurance plan. Join the conversation as Hubert advocates for transformative changes in disability support. Make your vote count here: https://everycanadiancounts.com/support/ Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

This week on Sickboy, the fellas sit down with Hubert Van Niekerk, the Interim Executive Director at Every Canadian Counts, an organization dedicated to enhancing services for Canadians with long-term, chronic disabilities. Hubert, with a diverse background spanning construction and education, shares his journey and the organization's mission to establish a national disability insurance plan in Canada. Delving into the intricacies of disability coverage, he sheds light on the differences between the Canada Disability Benefit and a comprehensive national insurance plan. Join the conversation as Hubert advocates for transformative changes in disability support. Make your vote count here: https://everycanadiancounts.com/support/ Join the post-episode conversation over on Discord! https://discord.gg/expeUDN

The Canada Disability Benefit is taking shape as Canadians suggest how it should look. Kelly Bron Johnson shares her ideas. From the November 27, 2023, episode.

Today on NOW with Dave Brown: Michelle McQuigge from the Canadian Press shares some takeaways from the Canada-EU Summit. Kelly Bron Johnson discusses the Canada Disability Benefit. And Amy Amantea reviews the Netflix biopic "NYAD." This is the November 27, 2023, episode.

BICYN's most recent op-ed in The Hill Times (not mentioned in the podcast - but super relevant to the podcast!) is about the Canada Disability Benefit and why we still need a guaranteed basic income. It was written by BICYN directors Alexandra Zannis and Ellen Spannagel. (https://www.hilltimes.com/story/2023/...) Kendal's academic work: https://carleton.ca/socialwork/people... https://invisibleinstitutions.com/ https://invisibleinstitutions.com/pol... https://invisibleinstitutions.com/pol... https://doi.org/10.1080/09687599.2022... https://doi.org/10.22215/etd/2021-14559 https://ojs.uwindsor.ca/index.php/csw... https://www.researchgate.net/profile/... To learn more about the Basic Income Canada Youth Network Website: https://www.basicincomeyouth.ca/ Youtube:    / @basicincomecanadayouthnetw8430   Twitter: https://twitter.com/BICYN_ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@basicincomeyo... Instagram: https://www.tiktok.com/@basicincomeyo... For more on the bills discussed in the episode: Bill C-22: Canada Disability Benefit Act https://www.parl.ca/legisinfo/en/bill... Bill S-233: National Framework for a Guaranteed Livable Basic Income Act https://www.parl.ca/legisinfo/en/bill...

In the first hour of the show, certified financial planner Ryan Chin explores the various factors that influence financial markets (11:50). Lawrence Gunther tells you all about Alkaline Hydrolysis (24:28). Elizabeth Mohler shares her reaction to the slow roll out of the Canada Disability Benefit (35:03). And, Amanda Shekarchi talks about the Barbie movie's continued popularity as it becomes the second-highest grossing film in Warner Bros. history (45:00).

Accessibility reporter Meagan Gillmore updates you on the Canada Disability Benefit following the latest cabinet shuffle (19:51). Lawrence Gunther shares tips for planning the perfect camping experience (33:59)! And, community reporter Elizabeth Mohler gives you the scoop about a Silent Disco Dance Party at the Harbourfront Centre in Toronto (43:37)!

In the first hour of NOW with Dave Brown: accessibility reporter Meagan Gillmore speaks with Minister Carla Qualtrough about the latest news on the Canada Disability Benefit (20:29). And AMI apprentice Amanda Shekarchi recaps the big Ed Sheeran concert that took place in Toronto over the weekend (46:40).

In the first hour of NOW with Dave Brown: Meagan Gillmore stops by to provide an update on the Canada Disability Benefit (30:52). And, Moncton New Brunswick Community Reporter Louise Levesque Burley discusses her love of gardening and tips and tricks to planting a garden this summer (43:28).

The city of Burnaby passed a pilot program for consumption of alcohol in parks. It joins a number of cities with similar programs. Next, disability advocates are pressing the government to urgently pass the Canada Disability benefit bill before this session ends. What would that mean for you? Is it enough?

In the second hour of NOW with Dave Brown: David Lepofsky from the AODA Alliance discusses the call to ratify amendments to the Canada Disability Benefit (14:53). And Dawn Dickinson previews “Voices of The Walrus” with an article about how military bases have become safe havens for at-risk species (26:04).

In the first hour of NOW with Dave Brown: Dr. Tilak Dutta tells you about this year's National Parks Accessibility Conference (19:50). Lawrence Gunther describes a new pilot project in Prince Edward Island to utilize electric buses to power warming centres during emergencies (28:58). And accessibility reporter Meagan Gillmore shares an update on the Canada Disability Benefit (40:12). 

Bill C-22 is in third reading at the Senate and policy makers expect it will be adopted before Parliament breaks for the summer. The new Canada Disability Benefit aims to lift tens of thousands of people with disabilities out of poverty. We speak with Sen. Brent Cotter who is sponsoring the bill; and Rabia Khedr, National Director of Disability Without Poverty and former Ontario Human Rights Commissioner.

In the first hour of NOW with Dave Brown: Rachel Bowen gives you the scoop about AMI-tv's new arts and culture series “Disrupt” (15:17). Accessibility reporter Meagan Gillmore shares an update on the Canada Disability Benefit (26:39). And community reporter Dorothy Macnaughton highlights an information fair in Sault Ste. Marie for National AccessAbility Week (41:53).

GUEST: David Lepofsky, Chair of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance

On Season 7, Episode 2 of The LowDOWN: A Down Syndrome Podcast, Rabia Kehdr from Disability Without Poverty gives us the lowdown on the Canada Disability Benefit. Support the showThe LowDOWN: A Down Syndrome Podcast is produced by the Down Syndrome Resource Foundation. Learn more and support the podcast at DSRF.org.Follow @DSRFCanada on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.Leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

In the first hour of NOW with Dave Brown: Dr. Larissa Moniz discusses Ontario's funding for ‘Luxturna' gene therapy (17:04). Meagan Gillmore returns with another accessibility report on the Canada Disability Benefit (27:08). And Dorothy Macnaughton explains how you can go about advocating for accessible pedestrian signals in your community (46:20).

UNESCo: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Kerry (February birthday girl) just took a course, a geography/tourism course, which covered this organization so should know what this acronym stands for, but can't remember as we mark a favourite day around here. This week and year, the theme for the 12th edition of the World Radio Day, to be celebrated on the 13th of February 2023, is " Radio and Peace. We are approaching our 200th episode of Outlook some time in the coming weeks, and we're celebrating here because radio deserves recognition and we're thankful )on this day and every day) to air first on Radio Western each Monday morning. We are grateful for the platform and being able to reach a widely diverse audience through this supportive university/community station out of London, Ontario Canada and we certainly work, on this show, to promote peace to be the ultimate goal we all strive for. Also, first week in February is White Cane Week and we're wrapping it up for 2023 with discussion to highlight the appreciated effort of companies who work for greater inclusion like the one our brother works for, Global Furniture Group, the Toronto company who have shared about this important week to inform the wider public about the white cane and its essential use as a mobility tool for blind people. We want to encourage all companies to do the same by way of educational material, a big step toward creating more inclusive workplaces everywhere. This week on Outlook we also discuss how Kerry spent her birthday weekend and how Brian ventured out to support an old friend's music locally at Aeolian Hall in London (Now designated a World musical Heritage City by UNESCO), and how accessible his travel experience was. We also mention a resource out of London, “Everyone Can Play: for children with disabilities to have the same access to physical activity all children do and we're sharing the research out of Western University in this area, not to mention the news that Bill C-22 (proposed Canada Disability Benefit) has now passed its third reading in the senate. We've recently heard from someone in Communications at Disability Without Poverty with an update on the status of this bill and this week we happily share their latest press release on its progress moving through the Canadian House of Commons: https://www.disabilitywithoutpoverty.ca/press-release-disability-without-poverty-remains-hopeful-about-bill-c-22/ All important ongoing topics to discuss to be sure and which we'll definitely revisit in future shows, however Kerry tries to move this mixed bag episode along (possibly becoming more and more impatient as she gets older); she must just be eager to announce she has a new website and to reveal it to the world. Kay Consulting is her new business and an old friend of hers generously offered to create this website for her writing, podcast, artivist, and consultant of lived experience work and services: https://kayconsulting.ca/ Find out more on the work of Kerry's friend and website designer here: https://thesidehustle.ca And all other links referenced in this episode can be found below: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/world-radio-day-we-are-diversity https://news.westernu.ca/2023/02/western-researchers-create-online-resource-to-support-physical-activity-for-children-with-disabilities/ https://cyneveryonecanplay.my.canva.site https://www.globalfurnituregroup.com/ca

In the first hour of NOW with Dave Brown: accessibility reporter Meagan Gillmore shares an update on the Canada Disability Benefit (28:47). Alex Smyth shares his coverage of the Ontario Parasport Games that took place this past weekend (16:43). And community reporter Dorothy Macnaughton tells you everything you need to know about the AODA review (44:01).

Today on the show, Steven finally gets the chance to learn all about the new Victor Reader Stream 3rd Generation, from HumanWare's Matthieu Patteque, who is based in Toronto. We will find out all the latest news on the product including the new design, new software and also some important updates on issues surrounding content on the new device. There's also a report on the latest from Canada's Parliament following the ascension of the new Canada Disability Benefit laws that will now go forward to the Senate for approval, potentially giving disabled Canadians the chance to receive a monetary benefit to help with living costs and more. And there's more of your feedback, with comments on the Blindshell Classic 2 issues we've been hearing about this week and a new AI voice that might just spell the end of Steven and Shaun as "real" presenters. Could this be the solution Mr. F is looking for? Keep that feedback coming - email feedback@doubletaponair.com or call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also find us across social media @DoubleTapOnair.

PWD - people with disabilities DWP - Disability Without Poverty December 3rd of this year marks 30 years since the United Nations adopted this date as the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). The theme for IDPD 2022 is “Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world“. What is Disability Without Poverty (DWP)? What is Bill C-22 (the Canada Disability Benefit)? This week on Outlook we speak with Janet Rodriguez – Disability advocate; Ontario coordinator for DWP about Janet's international perspective (speaking of coming from Peru to Canada) and then what it's been like living here in this country with the push for Bill C-22 as 2022 comes to a close. Janet tells us about this organization and this bill as the three of us have an open discussion about our own, individual experiences with disability and the connection between disability and poverty in Canada specifically, both before and since Covid-19 came along, contributing to so many societal cracks, all of which were already forming before the pandemic but of which have only widened more vastly since. When Covid hit, the government snapped into high gear for Canadians when they were unable to go to work. The Canadian government created the Canadian Emergency Response Benefit or CERB, but with cost-of-living on the increase, those living with disabilities (both visible and invisible) have fallen further and further below the poverty line. This ends up harming society more, in the long run, but with disability there's always been stigma and feelings of being a burden, on the system, in the capitalistic culture we're all living in. We wanted to speak with someone who is doing something, as part of a group of Canadians living with disability, to engage with policy makers and fellow stakeholders to make life better for pwd, a group any one of us could join at any time. “Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world“. This may be a global truth, but it must begin and end in the country in which we live, and Janet Rodriguez is our guest for this broad strokes discussion broken down. Those of us with disabilities in Canada (PWD/DWP), we must have a highly visible seat at the table for all consultations on the creation of a Canadian Disability Benefit and that's just what Disability Without Poverty and Rodriguez are doing by pulling up a chair for human rights here at home. And as we wrap up 2022, on this first Outlook of December, we promote Disability Without Poverty's webinar taking place Thursday, December 8th beginning at 9 AM PT/12 PM ET. It's a year-End review of the Canada Disability Benefit. Together with hosts Michelle Hewitt, national co-chair) and Rabia Khedr, national director, DWP will be discussing "how far we've come and the challenges that lie ahead in making Bill C-22 a reality.” Register here: https://plan-9.hubspotpagebuilder.com/reg-dwp-year-end-townhall You can also register by phone at: 1-877-775-6652 Read more about what Disability Without Poverty are all about by visiting their website where you can sign up for the DWP newsletter for updates in your inbox: https://www.disabilitywithoutpoverty.ca And find them on Facebook: http://facebook.com/disabilitywithoutpoverty

Accessibility reporter Meagan Gillmore recaps the committee hearings on Bill C-22, the Canada Disability Benefit. From the November 29, 2022 episode.

Dr. Sheri McKinstry describes the newly launched Indigenous Dental Association of Canada. Accessibility reporter Meagan Gillmore recaps the committee hearings on Bill C-22, the Canada Disability Benefit. Louise Levesque Burley tells you how you can Braille greeting cards for the holidays using chocolate! Nelson Rego of Cool Blind Tech shares findings from a new study from iScience journal that looks at the benefits of AirPods for people with moderate hearing loss. And we have another edition of the weekly news quiz, this time with contestants Ryan Delehanty, Karen Magee and Alex Smyth! This is the November 29, 2022 episode.

Disability activist, lawyer and AODA Alliance chair David Lepofsky on what needs to be improved in Bill C22 and the proposed Canada Disability Benefit.   This is the November 17, 2022 episode. 

Marco Pasqua and Elizabeth Mohler join in for another roundtable discussion on the Canadian Disability Benefit. From the November 9, 2022 episode.

You can use Microsoft Word online to transcribe audio. Michael Babcock explains the benefit of this feature. The Indianapolis Colts have fired head coach Frank Reich after a 3-5-1 start to the season. We get the details with Brock Richardson of The Neutral Zone on our weekly Sports Update. Joining us to chat about the second season of AMI-tv's Fashion Dis, and to let us know how you can be casted, is Host of the show, Ardra Shephard. The Gladstone Theatre in Ottawa is back with a radio play for Remembrance Day, titled Voices from the Front, The Radio Show. Community Reporter Kim Kilpatrick has the details. On our CNIB SmartLife chat, we're joined by SmartLife coaches Mazen and Maria, to discover great, accessible gifts for the holidays. On Know Your Rights, Danielle McLaughlin discusses the federal Bill C-22, The proposed Canada Disability Benefit.

On Know Your Rights, Danielle McLaughlin discusses the federal Bill C-22, the proposed Canada Disability Benefit.

Jim Krysko dropped by to talk about the Saskatchewan government announcing nearly $11 million in funding to Disability Employment and Career Services as well as what a Saskatchewan disability advocate told politicians on a recent trip to Parliament Hill. From the October 31, 2022 episode.

A new federal disability credit has passed second reading. We'll get the details and what it could mean for disabled New Brunswickers from Ability NB's Haley Flaro.

Former hockey player Paul Henderson discusses the 50th anniversary of the Summit '72 Series. John Lohr, Nova Scotia's minister responsible for emergency management, talks about how the province is preparing for Hurricane Fiona. Disability Inclusion Minister Carla Qualtrough talks about her plan for a Canada Disability Benefit.

We hear reaction to the re-introduced act from a Prince George resident

On May 26, Canada's Minister of Employment, work force Development and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough said the Liberal government plans to retable the Canada Disability Benefit before the end of June.Disability advocates had been calling on the federal government to table this bill since it was introduced last summer. The legislation would help support people living with disabilities and dealing with poverty. According to Statistics Canada, one in every four people with a disability are low income.Michelle Hewitt, the co-chair of Disability without Poverty, explains what supports are currently available to disabled Canadians, why this benefit is needed now, and the importance of including disabled voices in its creation.

Today on NOW with Dave Brown, Disability advocate Rabia Khedr shares her thoughts on the federal budget's lack of reference to the Canada Disability Benefit. Accessibility reporter Meagan Gillmore describes a new accessibility regulation in the province of British Columbia. Community reporter Louise Levesque Burley in Moncton, New Brunswick gives details about this year's Gutsy Walk by Crohn's and Colitis Canada. Nelson Rego of Cool Blind Tech chats about a new sensor technology for navigation by Intelligent Material Solutions. And, quizmaster Mike Ross challenges Karen Magee, Mark Phoenix and Dave Brown in another edition of the weekly news quiz! This is the April 19, 2022 episode.

Disability advocate Rabia Khedr shares her thoughts on the federal budget's lack of reference to the Canada Disability Benefit. From the April 19, 2022 episode.

Accessibility reporter Meagan Gillmore shares the government's response to a petition for a fast-tracked Canada Disability Benefit. From the April 5, 2022 episode.

Today on NOW with Dave Brown, Mike Parker of the Health Sciences Association of Alberta discusses the state of COVID-19 in the province. Accessibility reporter Meagan Gillmore shares the government's response to a petition for a fast-tracked Canada Disability Benefit. Community reporter Dorothy Macnaughton gives details about a new pilot program to test the BlindSquare App on Sault Ste. Marie's transit system. Nelson Rego of Cool Blind Tech describes 'PeopleLens,' a new AI project by Microsoft for youth who are blind or partially sighted. And we have another edition of our weekly news quiz with quizmaster Corinne Van Dusen and contestants Karen Magee, Mark Phoenix and Mike Ross! This is the April 5, 2022 episode.

Rabia Khedr, national director for Disability Without Poverty, discusses a proposed monthly Canada Disability Benefit. This is the January 22, 2022 episode.

A group of high-profile Canadians have written a joint letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau calling on the federal government to fast-track the Canadian disability benefit. Rabia Khedr, National Director of Disability Without Poverty, joins Mike Stubbs to discuss. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We speak with a panel about the Federal Election Results. Victoria Levack is a Human Rights Activist focusing on housing & disability issues. Rabia Khedr is the National Director of Disability Without Poverty, CEO of DEEN support Services and a former Human Rights Commissioner in Ontario. Marcie Shwery-Stanley is an advocate for people living with disabilities here in Cape Breton. She has served on advisory boards and committees at every level of government.

Oh boy! Here we go! On September 7th, 2021 something called the Pan-Canadian Disability Coalition put on a federal leaders debate (on and for disability and Canadians living with one like blindness). This hadn't existed before and though twenty-two percent of Canadians with a disability, we rarely hear our specific issues mentioned by politicians, on or off the campaign trail. It's one week to the next federal election here in Canada and today on Outlook we're speaking with new friend Owen Parkin, a Lakehead University student living in Thunder Bay, who was born with Norrie Disease and went to W. Ross Macdonald School in Brantford, now studying political science, with hopes of going to law school and running for office one day. With this first-time guest's first time on the show, we appreciate the energy of the younger generations like Owen's, as we as Canadians, of all ages, try to figure out how to bridge gaps, what's best, and that's not easy, to sift through party platforms and find the things that most matter to each of us. To push back against the understandable cynicism of a bunch of campaign promises and slow government progress, along with external events in the broader world. From international to here at home, Owen wasn't even born when 9/11 happened, but we start the show talking about that sad anniversary, the mess the west has left in Afghanistan, and the frantic energy of back-to-school and an election. Owen shares with us what it meant to vote for the first time, walks us through some of the things each party has in their platform (Liberals/Conservative/NDP/Greens/PPC), the difference between the options of universal basic income/guaranteed livable income/and a proposed Canada Disability Benefit, and the roles and responsibilities of making voting accessible for all Canadians (UNCRPD, Article 29), specifically voters who are blind. Who's responsible for holding Elections Canada's feet to the fire on making voting something we can all do without barriers or interference? Is the CNIB really doing enough for us in this area, if they are supposed to be who speaks for and takes care of us blind Canadians? When really, at least according to the three of us on this episode, we don't feel represented by them in 2021 and would rather speak for ourselves. Along with Owen, we discuss what the parties are willing to do for Canadians with disabilities, but it's more than that because our issues are your issues, as anyone can find themselves living with a disability at any point. Also, those of us with disabilities don't only care about the things directly relating to disability, but also things like climate change and affordable housing for everyone, things that if Canada does well, should lift us all up. It's all connected, everything is political, which isn't easy for many of us to admit, but Owen is going to school for this stuff, loves a good back-and-forth debate and election seasons in general, and is here to walk and talk us novices through platforms, as we recorded this just hours before last week's English leaders debate. So check us out to hear from the enthusiastic former W Ross student Brian met when speaking to a class about audio engineering. And, for all Canadians, remember to vote on September 20th, 2021, to make your voice heard, with the understanding of the power and the freedom that comes along with the right to vote.

Sherry Costa - Lorenz is the Provincial Coordinator for the Nova Scotia League for Equal Opportunities. She tells us about this announcement and how you can get your voice heard regarding the benefit.