OTTAWA — December 3rd is the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a time when progressive nations reflect on how well they, as a people, empower persons with disabilities in society.

“Sadly, our record on Human Rights has been fading and rather than celebrating, this should be one of sober reflection,” commented Elizabeth May, Leader of the Canadian Greens. “As the media has shown, Canada’s current attitude with respect to Human Rights is in question.”

Canada has still failed to sign on to the International Convention on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Even more telling is our refusal to ratify to date the UN Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).” It should be remembered that already 29 months have passed since the signing ceremony for the CRPD at the United Nations,” stated Joe Foster, Human Rights Critic.

The Convention marks a paradigm shift in attitudes and challenges the previous view which saw persons with disabilities as people who require charity rather than respect. It now makes it clear that persons with disabilities, like all people, are “subjects” of the international human framework with exactly the same rights and freedoms as everyone else.”

“All Canadians benefit from increasing the active involvement of persons with disabilities in the life of our communities,” said Mr. Foster.