Honouring Indigenous Disability Awareness Month

This November, we recognize Indigenous Disability Awareness Month (IDAM) and reflect on the unique experiences and contributions of Indigenous people with disabilities. IDAM was established by Indigenous Disability Canada and the British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS) in 2015. IDAM is dedicated to raising awareness of the social, economic and cultural contributions that Indigenous persons with disabilities bring to their communities while also highlighting the unique challenges they face.

Over 30 percent of Indigenous Canadians aged 15 and over experience some form of disability, a rate higher than the general Canadian population. This reality underscores the urgent need for inclusive services that address both disability and the additional barriers Indigenous persons face—such as systemic discrimination, lack of childcare, transportation and challenges in accessing culturally appropriate support. These barriers are rooted in the social determinants of health. They are further compounded by a history of colonial violence, which has led to complex, intersectional challenges impacting mental and physical health.

For details on supporting IDAM or further information on the awareness month, please visit https://www.bcands.bc.ca/.