Media advisory - Sommet national sur le handicap: a pivotal moment for inclusion in Quebec

QUÉBEC, Oct. 6, 2024 /CNW/ - The first Sommet national sur le handicap (National Summit on Disability) in 40 years will be held on October 7 at Université Laval, marking a crucial turning point in the fight for the inclusion of people with disabilities (PWD). Organized by the Confédération des organismes de personnes handicapées du Québec (COPHAN) and its allies, this event invites corporate leaders, politicians, the media, opinion leaders and civil society to come together to debate and take action.

As our world is evolving, we are collectively benefiting from measures initially designed for PSH: sidewalks with dropped curbs, automatic doors, accessible pedestrian signals, etc. Yet invisible obstacles persist for these people, who are often faced with indifference and structural difficulties.

This summit aims to change that.

What:	The Sommet national sur le handicap aims to bring together key players to discuss issues affecting people with disabilities (PWD) in Quebec, including the lack of adapted housing, financial precariousness, and lack of representation in decision-making bodies. Speakers will be available for interviews.
Why:	Troubling testimonials and shocking realities will be shared at the summit, revealing issues often ignored by the public. For example, why do people with disabilities make up 40% of Canadians living in poverty? How do PSD end up asking for medical assistance in dying, for lack of adequate care? Why does a person living with a disability have to choose between taking their medication or eating?
When:	October 7, 2024, 9 AM to 5 PM
Where:	Laval University, Quebec City
Who:	The Confédération des organismes de personnes handicapées du Québec (COPHAN), the largest multi-disability French-speaking organization in North America, in collaboration with its allies. Numerous speakers, as well as political figures (e.g., Minister Lionel Carmant), will be present to deliver speeches.

SOURCE Confédération des organismes de personnes handicapées du Québec

For further information, please contact: Stéphane Lacroix, Communications Advisor, Confédération des organismes de personnes handicapées du Québec, 514 609-5101, [email protected]