By: Gabbi Rabaa
2023 was a big year for advocacy at CNIB with the launch of our new strategic plan, “The Way Forward.” In our last edition of Equalize for the year, we wanted to reflect on some of our advocacy successes.
2023 Advocacy at a Glance
Accessible Insulin Pumps: CNIB supported Petition e-4177 to ensure Health Canada’s approval process for new medical devices includes an accessibility assessment and to work with insulin pump manufacturers to address the safety concerns with existing insulin pumps. After receiving 2,775 signatures, the petition was formally tabled in the House of Commons by MP Bonita Zarrillo in March. - Canada Disability Benefit: We engaged with government and stakeholders to support the passage of Bill C-22 to create a Canada Disability Benefit that would support the financial security of Canadians with disabilities. We are now gathering feedback from community members across the country on key aspects of the benefit, which will guide our recommendations to the government.
- RBC Partnership Supporting Youth: CNIB partnered with RBC Foundation through RBC Future Launch to support employment programming for youth. This partnership will support job readiness programs for youth and initiatives like the National Youth Council, which help youth build skills and confidence as they pursue their academic and employment goals.
- “Get On Board” Campaign for Accessible Public Transit: In October, CNIB launched the “Get On Board” campaign in 13 municipalities across Canada. Through this campaign, we met with over 30 politicians and transit representatives and completed over 170 secret rider surveys to talk about local solutions to improve transit accessibility. We will use this momentum to continue to advocate for accessible public transportation.
- Infrastructure Canada cycling infrastructure project funding: CNIB received funding through the federal government’s Active Transportation Fund to support research on the impact of raised cycle tracks at bus stops and to develop recommendations for the construction of future raised cycle tracks in Canada.
Our advocacy successes wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our volunteers, community members, and staff. Join us in 2024 to continue advocating for accessibility by visiting the CNIB National Campaign webpage.