December 3rd is the annual celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The theme for this year is ‘Not all Disabilities are Visible’; which focuses on expanding awareness and understanding of disabilities that are not immediately apparent.
Some examples include mental illness, chronic pain or fatigue, sight or hearing impairments, diabetes, neurological disorders, learning differences and cognitive dysfunctions, among others.
This day serves as a reminder of the importance of removing barriers for all people living with disabilities, both visible and invisible. Especially now, during COVID-19, people living with disabilities have experienced the loss or severe reduction of needed services and programs, along with the traumatic disconnection of their social support networks.
Spreading awareness of invisible disabilities, as well as the detrimental impacts to mental health from the fear, anxiety and stress brought on by COVID-19, is crucial. I ask that you check-in with friends, family and colleagues, as they may be dealing with the added stress of navigating this new reality while living with a disability.
In Solidarity,
Sue Soubra Boone,
Members with Disabilities Representative – PSAC Ontario Council