The biggest barrier for the genuine inclusion of people with disabilities is not an issue of charity or low self-esteem but one of civil rights, according to the folks behind Hope Is Not A Plan, a film that's showing at the Bob Prittie Metrotown library branch in April.
North Vancouver resident and activist Paul Caune produced the film, along with Colin Ford, and both will be at the event for a Q&A session following the screening.
"Most Canadians who have disabilities don't have a practical way to enforce civil rights guaranteed by the charter," Caune said.
People with disabilities are poor and they can't afford to pay for lawyers, he added, and some dependant on government care may fear retribution, if they complain about maltreatment.
Hope Is Not A Plan features interviews with 15 people with disabilities.
UBC professor Tim Stainton and Paralympian Paul Gauthier are featured in the film.
The film screening is on Wednesday, April 10, from 7 to 8: 30 p.m.
The event is free, but seating is limited. RSVP by emailing colin@urbansher pafilms.com.
GRANT PROGRAM
The South Burnaby Neighbourhood House is calling on local residents to submit applications for the 2013 round of small neighbourhood grants. The annual program, funded by the Vancouver Foundation, hands out grants up to $500 to people with projects to improve their neighbourhoods and build community.
This year, the neighbourhood house will provide three special $1,000 grants for a project with lasting impacts in three areas of the city: the north, the southeast and the southwest.
To apply, contact the neighbourhood house at 604-431-0400.
Email Here and Now items to [email protected]
