Not everyone is celebrating nor does everyone feel welcome to participate in the celebration and activities.

Unlike countless other municipalities, the Amherstburg Canada Day Run/Walk did not include the word ‘roll’ in its title; if it had, people using mobility devices might have felt welcome to participate, but it was a timed race for those who are ‘able’ to run and/or walk.

So many advertisements of events state everyone is welcome, but are they? They’re not welcome if they can’t get there due to barriers and they can’t participate in anything that is not inclusive.

There is a long history of persons with disabilities being marginalized and discriminated against and it is unacceptable, given all the legislation, polices, practices, guidelines, etc. to encounter ‘it’s just a painfully slow process’ or ‘baby steps.’ Such comments indicate the attitude that it’s just not a priority; it’s especially evident when other projects like a dog park are built and celebrated or when politicians volunteer and/or advocate for certain projects that appeal to their interests.

Ableism is the belief that it is “normal” to not have a disability and that “normal” is preferred. It’s discrimination on the basis of disability. Visit Inclusion Canada’s This Is Ableism to learn more.

Atrocity an extremely wicked or cruel act, typically one involving physical violence or injury. “war atrocities”

Two years ago thousands of unmarked graves of Indigenous children were found in residential schools throughout Canada. CTV reported last year, Organizers from coast to coast say they are trying to balance celebrations of Canadian pride with reflections on the country’s difficult history with Indigenous people.

Visit Why you Shouldn’t be Celebrating Canada Day- and what to do Instead to learn more.

When ALL marginalized communities are welcome to attend and participate in events that are inclusive of EVERYONE, I’ll be the first to celebrate.