December 2 2025

Celebrated annually on December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development, and to increase awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

Findings from the 2022 Canadian Survey on Disability show that 27% of Canadians aged 15 years and older, or 8 million people, had one or more disabilities. Of that 8 million, approximately 1.5 million people with disabilities are living in poverty. The number is likely higher now due to the ongoing cost of living crisis and trade instability with the U.S.

While the recently passed federal budget includes some small improvements to the Canada Disability Benefit, it falls short of making a meaningful difference in the lives of people with disabilities as it endeavors to “build Canada Strong”. Indeed, with planned cuts across most departments, people with disabilities will be negatively impacted, both in terms of job losses and the delivery of public services.

The current government has made no mention of plans to implement the recommendations from the 2023 Report of the Employment Equity Act Review Task Force. Furthermore, it remains to be seen how the government can deliver on Canada’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan amidst 15% cuts to Employment and Social Development Canada.

NUPGE will continue to hold governments accountable and adhere to the principle of “nothing about us, without us” when advocating for policies that impact people with disabilities. Members are encouraged to attend Disability Without Poverty’s free, virtual research symposium on Wednesday, December 3, to gain a better understanding on the realities faced by people with disabilities.