To mark the UN Enable 2013 International Day of Persons with Disabilities , the Disabilities and Human Rights Group decided to ask the community at large to share stories of dignity and respect experienced in community organizations and businesses. The D&HR group believes that being treated with dignity and respect regardless of level of ability is the first step towards breaking barriers and opening doors to create for an inclusive society for all.

Story #1 : Scotiabank

This was the first bank in Canada to be accessible! I don’t remember the exact year. I do know that it was before 1984 when accessibility was not required. All branches throughout Canada and in Kitchener/Waterloo in particular are equipped with automatic door openers and lowered counters. Staff is always pleasant and helpful.
~S.~

Story # 2: Waterloo Regional Homes for Mental Health

I am treated with respect and dignity by all of the staff at Waterloo Regional Homes for Mental Health. My support worker is very special. She has an amazing memory, I feel like a real person with her.
S. J.

Story #3: Disability and Human Rights Group

As a person with lived experience, the Disability and Human Rights Group has provided me with a community to work together and interact with others within an atmosphere of respect and dignity. The group strives to work at a pace that is inclusive of the needs of all the participants. We are able to identify and voice our concerns around disability challenges with each other, to the Kitchener Waterloo Social Planning Council, and at municipal, provincial and federal levels of government. The Disability and Human Rights Group also opens doors for increased involvement in other venues. For me this included an opportunity to participate in a University of Winnipeg Disability Studies’ project” Older adults and Inclusive community: Planning a model for income supports from a user perspective.”
M.

Story #4: Shoppers Drug Mart

All marts have automatic doors and helpful staff members. The aisles are wide enough for easy access.
S.

Story #5: Grand River Transit Customer Service

The elevator at the Charles St. terminal was out of order, causing significant problems for people with mobility issues. I spoke with a customer service representative and the assistant manager, passenger facilities, and got a prompt resolution to the problem. They took my concerns seriously.
J.

Story #6: Home Depot (1450 Ottawa St. South, Kitchener)

Staff have good product knowledge and pleasantly answer all questions.
C.

Story #7: Kidsability, CNIB, Waterloo Region Public Health, Waterloo Region Family Network, Integration Action for Inclusion

These organizations deserve recognition:


• Kidsability
• Waterloo Region Family Network
• CNIB
• Integration Action for Inclusion
• Waterloo Region Public Health

It was very good to work with them. I felt very close to the workers and they really cared about my son and my family. I found they walked "the extra mile" with us.

C.