Event host
Family Support Institute of BC
604-540-8374 ext. 521
jla@fsibc.com
Join us on October 30th for: History of Community Living – Deinstitutionalization stories from Self Advocates with Fred Ford
Current services and supports for people with an intellectual disability have emerged from a long and complicated history of fear and oppression, charitable beliefs, pseudo-science, human rights, and economic priorities that date back hundreds and even thousands of years. Beginning almost 200 years ago, across Canada, and later in British Columbia, the institutional model was originally considered a progressive and compassionate response to meeting the needs of people with disabilities. Despite the failure of institutions in meeting people’s needs, the model has persisted, and people continue to be institutionalized in several provinces. The closure of large institutions in BC was achieved through the perseverance and sustained advocacy organized by family members, community service providers, allies in government and especially, people with intellectual disabilities themselves. Continuing our conversations about the history, values, and beliefs that guide the movement is vital to sustaining ourselves – and the vision of community living for all citizens. This session will explore the roots and history of institutions and the development of the community living movement in BC and Canada.
Learning Outcomes:
- Some of the beliefs that led to and sustained the institutional model
- The development of institutions in BC and elsewhere
- Key events and champions that inspired the closure of institutions and the development of the community living movement
- Some of the current challenges to ensuring everyone’s right to live in the community
To Register click here
Family Support Institute is excited to begin launching free online workshops available to all families/individuals during August to November! Take advantage of the chance to connect and learn together virtually in the safety and comfort of your own home.
