In this issue, we discuss the CNIB Foundation's Ontario Budget Ask. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is unclear when the Ontario Budget will be announced. We talk to Jacob Charendoff about a complaint he filed with the Ontario Human Rights Commission, and we learn more about The Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Robyn Rennie tells us about her passion for making art accessible, and Bernard Akuoko shares his story about growing up with sight loss as a young black man. We also hear from an advocate in Northern Ontario about his advocacy journey for accessible pedestrian signals.
-CNIB Foundation Ontario Advocacy Team
Read articles from the April 2020 issue of Equalize
In May, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control announced new rules for all dogs entering the United States as part of their efforts to prevent dog-variant rabies from entering the country. The changes, which were set to take effect Aug. 1, would have required people entering the U.S. with a dog to complete two new forms, including one signed by a veterinarian to be verified upon arrival by U.S. border agents. CNIB Guide Dogs publicly voiced its concerns about how the changes and cumbersome administrative paperwork would negatively affect guide dog handlers crossing the border.
CNIB Lake Joe, in collaboration with Canadian Blind Hockey, wrapped up an inspiring Camp Abilities Blind Hockey program. From July 1-6, 2024, youth ages 8-18 who are blind or have vision loss gathered at the camp to learn and play the sport of Blind Hockey, focusing on skill development and cultivating a love for the game.
As part of our efforts to ensure safe and accessible journeys for all Canadians who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision, CNIB appeared before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Transportation (TRAN) on April 18, 2024, to provide testimony for its study on accessible air transportation for persons with disabilities. CNIB also submitted a written briefing note encompassing our testimony and recommendations for the government, regulators, airlines, and other air transportation service providers.
In October, CNIB introduced “Get on Board!” – a new advocacy campaign centred on accessible transit as part of our strategic commitment to Safe and Accessible Journeys. The “Get on Board!” campaign examined the accessibility of buses, light rail, and ferries operated by 13 transit authorities and shed light on the obstacles encountered by individuals with sight loss when navigating publicly funded fixed-route transit services in various municipalities across Canada. It also provided opportunities for CNIB to develop and strengthen relationships with government and transit officials in each participating community. While the fall launch laid the foundation for our ongoing advocacy work, we’re excited to introduce the next phase of the "Get on Board!" transit campaign.
Today, 23 new partnerships, including 15 guide dogs, seven buddy dogs, and one ambassador dog, formally graduated as part of the CNIB Guide Dogs Class of 2024.
As part of the celebration, viewing parties of the graduation ceremony were held in communities across Canada. For many graduates, these events signified not only the end of months of anticipation and formal training – but also a tribute to all the individuals who supported each dog in their journey, making these partnerships possible.