Contents
Accessibility 
Comox unveils accessibility map to help residents navigate with ease 
Arts
H-Disability: A Disabled Artist’s Journey Through Art and Activism - An Exhibit by Wendy Elliott-Vandivier at the Barbara Bates Center 
LIFE AFTER returns to Canada - October 4th! 
Housing 

Dedication

This year’s Annual Report is dedicated to Laurie Beachell and Ellen Cohen. Laurie Beachell was CCD’s National Coordinator from 1984 until 2015. Laurie passed in December 2024. Ellen Cohen was a long-term member of the CCD National Council and she was one of the key leaders involved in the Charter challenge to the BC Mental Health Case. In the appendix, you will find a write up about Laurie that was published in the Winnipeg Free Press and a write-up about Ellen Cohen.

Everyone has a career origin story, a foundation of experiences upon which their current employment rests, the reason why they do what they do.

Today, I am known as an inclusion and belonging specialist. My voice is heard in many spaces, my perspective sought after, and my storytelling skills acclaimed.

by

the Canadian Civil Society UN CRPD Delegation

It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the sudden passing of Ellen Cohen, a lifelong advocate for the rights and dignity of people with disabilities. Ellen passed away in Geneva, Switzerland, where she was part of the Canadian delegation of disability rights and civil society organizations participating in the United Nations review of Canada’s implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Her passing is a deep loss to the disability community in Canada and beyond.

WHEN: Saturday, February 1, 2025
Zoom formal program: 2:10 pm - 3:10 pm (CST)
In person gathering: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm (CST)

WHERE: Online: Zoom
In Person: Main floor classroom
Canadian Museum for Human Rights
85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, MB

Dear Friends and Colleagues:

December 7, 2024

It is with deep sadness that the Council of Canadians with Disabilities (CCD) announces the passing of Laurie Beachell, who died from complications due to pneumonia. As Heather Walkus, CCD’s Chairperson notes, “Canada has lost a remarkable and dedicated champion of disability rights. Laurie served as the National Coordinator of CCD from 1984 to 2015.”

Contents
Access
Invitation to participate in the review of Ontario’s Accessibility Standards for Customer Service 
Announcements 
Relaunch! The New Society Institute (formerly IRIS) 
Canada Disability Benefit 
PLAN: Announcing our new Canada Disability Benefit website and additional support for Disability Tax Credit applications! 

Briefing Note

To: Council of Canadians with Disabilities

From: Yvonne Peters, Cochair Disability Justice Litigation Initiative

Date: October 4, 2024

RE: International Air Transport Association v. Canada (Transportation Agency)

SUPREME COURT OF CANADA RULES ON COMPENSATION

Contents
Canada Disability Benefit 
REMINDER: Register for Sept 9 webinar| Reaction to Regulations | HAPPENING NEXT WEEK 
Health Justice 
Health Justice report launch: Gender-based violence and discrimination in involuntary treatment 
Human Rights 
Canadian Human Rights Commission | Our Accessibility: Tell us how we’re doing 
Housing 
Accessible Housing Available in Halifax