November 26 2024

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed annually on December 3. The slogan, “Nothing About Us Without Us,” demands full participation, consent, opportunities, and leadership for people with disabilities in all policy decisions and matters relating to people with disabilities. Today, the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) reaffirms its commitment to that principle.

People with disabilities continue to be excluded from the workforce and other areas of society. Their needs should not be an afterthought to be dealt with through a patchwork of accommodations: people with disabilities must be at the table and their needs taken into consideration at the start of any project or policy.

At the 2025 Triennial Convention, NUPGE’s National Executive Board will be bringing forward a resolution to convert NUPGE’s Workers with Disabilities Committee from a special committee to a standing committee. Together with the Workers with Disabilities Committee, NUPGE will continue to work as an ally in the disability justice movement and advocate for the rights of people with disabilities in Canada and around the world.