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Tracy-Jo Russell. (Photo Holly Miyasaki)
If you said hello to Mayor Sharon Shepherd at Orchard Park shopping centre Saturday morning, she probably rewarded you with a green pin that said “Hi” on it.
The pin is a reminder that something as easy as saying “hi” can lessen the stigma for those considered “disabled” by society.
One of those people is Tracy-Jo Russell, of Kamloops. Russell made the trip to Kelowna to participate in Community Living B.C.’s informational kiosk at the mall over the weekend. The event was held in celebration of Community Living Month.
“Some people think that if you touch someone you can get their disability,” says Russell. “Labels belong on jars, not on people.”
Russell has had numerous challenges to overcome. She says she suffers from vision problems, issues with the length of one of her legs and is at a “Grade 5-8 level.”
But she hopes others can see past what may make her different in their eyes, and wants to encourage that through Community Living B.C.
The provincial Crown agency believes adults with developmental disabilities and their families have the right to pursue “good lives in welcoming communities.” Part of that is feeling safe where you live, go to school, work and play.
Mayor Sharon Shepherd was at Orchard Park shopping centre promoting Community Living B.C. Saturday afternoon. (Photo Holly Miyasaki)
As a public awareness initiative, the organization is encouraging community members to say “Hi” to a person they see regularly who has a developmental disability.
Self advocacy is another important part of what Community Living B.C. promotes. For Russell this means rallying the government over issues that include common-law regulations, family support and make sure those with disabilities live the life they choose.
“We’re trying to get some things changed,” says Russell. “It’s going to take a while, but we’re going to get there.”
Community Living B.C. provides housing options that encourage independence while meeting a person’s unique needs; family support, including respite and homemaker services; connections with community services, including assessment and consultation to support individuals, families or caregivers; the Provincial Assessment Centre for people with mental illness and/or severe behavioural challenges that provide diagnosis, assessments, support and planning; and community inclusion supports to help adults with developmental disabilities find work and build social and life skills.
For more information about their programs visit www.communitylivingbc.ca.
entertainment@kelowna.com
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One Response to “Acceptance starts with “Hi””
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Being a caregiver for two adults with disabilities through Clbc has been a fantastic experience for our family. Great article.
Ryan Donn
singer/songwriter
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