”If we are to achieve a richer culture, we must weave one in which each diverse human gift will find a fitting place.” Margaret Mead

December 3, 2018 marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). Proclaimed by the United Nations in 1992, the day aims to promote a better understanding of disability issues, the rights of persons with disabilities, and the gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of the political, social, economic and cultural life of their communities.

The Defence Team is commemorating IDPD 2018 under the theme “Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality.”

This theme aligns well with the Defence Policy, Strong, Secure, Engaged, which outlines an unprecedented focus on ensuring our people and their families are well-supported, diverse and resilient – physically, psychologically and socially. That includes creating a workplace that is fair, respectful, inclusive and supportive of diversity.

This year’s theme has inspired me to look beyond the traditional avenues of awareness. As the Defence CIO, I find technological solutions that are sound, safe and sustainable. As the Defence Champion for persons with disabilities, I want to share technological resources that will help the disabled community with everything from managing their daily routines, to teaching their children a new skill, to achieving their physical fitness goals.

I encourage you all to attend your local IDPD events. They are the forum to start the conversation about inclusiveness, about issues affecting persons with disabilities, and about ways to be more inclusive in our daily activities.

Len Bastien

Defence Champion for Persons with Disabilities, Assistant Deputy Minister (Information Management), and Defence Chief Information Officer

DND/CAF national commemoration event: December 3, 2018 at 10:00 a.m., National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa (101 Colonel By Drive)