Accessibility is a critical issue that affects everyone, both currently and in the future. In Saskatchewan, the government has established an accessibility committee to address this issue and improve access within the province. Bobby Jansen, a member of the committee, emphasized the importance of accessibility by stating, “You never know when you’re going to need it.” One in three people in Saskatchewan identifies as having a disability, which translates to roughly 300,000 individuals. David Fourney, another committee member who is also a person with a disability, highlighted the fact that disability transcends race, language, and background, impacting everyone.
Fourney, who is hard of hearing and affected by autism spectrum disorder, stressed the significance of having a voice for people with disabilities within the community. Jansen, who is blind, shared a personal experience that drove her to join the committee – when a young boy expressed his desire to be like her, she realized the importance of being a part of the change. Despite the committee’s efforts to improve access, both Fourney and Jansen acknowledged that there is still a long way to go in terms of making Saskatchewan more accessible for individuals with disabilities.
While progress has been made in Saskatchewan, such as the addition of accessible facilities in provincial parks and zoos, challenges still exist. For example, a plan to create the province’s first accessible waterslide in Regina faced obstacles related to cost and logistics, which prevented its completion. Despite these challenges, Fourney emphasized the privilege of having a disability and being part of a unique group with valuable lived experiences. He urged individuals with disabilities to stand up and advocate for their rights, emphasizing the importance of using their voice to demand change and ensure they are heard.
Both Fourney and Jansen stressed the importance of continued advocacy and awareness-raising efforts in Saskatchewan and beyond. They encouraged individuals to speak up and not let their voices be silenced or ignored. By amplifying their voices and advocating for improved access and equality, people with disabilities can help drive positive change and make society more inclusive for everyone. The committee’s work in Saskatchewan reflects a broader commitment to promoting accessibility and ensuring that people of all abilities have equal opportunities to fully participate in society.
