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The SACL has a respected tradition of a strong voice at the local, provincial
and national level with government and agencies on issues that affect
people with intellectual disabilities and their families. Since
our beginning, we speak out to create welcoming and accessible communities.
The Charter
of Rights and Freedoms reflects much of the Association's work,
provincially and nationally, on human and civil rights. The Saskatchewan
Human Rights Code was changed and further amended to include protection
from discrimination for people with intellectual disabilities.
North Park
Centre, a government-operated institution for people with disabilities,
was closed near Prince Albert and Valley View Centre near Moose
Jaw has been scaled down. A greater emphasis is placed on developing
community supports for people returning to a life in the community
and for those already here.
Frank, open
discussions with government decision-makers are held in forums such
as the SACL's MLA Breakfast, Delegation Day, and by appointment
with specific Ministers and department officials. The SACL continually
monitors legislation and listens closely to people with disabilities
and their families as to how government policy and practice impacts
on them. Briefs and position papers on a variety of subjects that
affect the lives of people with disabilities are regularly presented
to government and various agencies.
Government
advisory bodies and working groups are an opportunity for SACL representatives
to ensure the voices of people with intellectual disabilities and
their families are heard. SACL has worked on the Council on Disability
Issues, the Disability Action Plan, the Special Education Review,
the Justice Department's Legislative Working Group, the Children
with Exceptional Needs Working Committee (Saskatchewan Learning),
and the Saskatchewan Council on Children and Youth.
Working relationships
with entities such as the Office of Disability Issues, Provincial
Interagency Network on Disabilities (PIND) and others reinforce
SACL's constant commitment to work for change, remove barriers and
protest discrimination.
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