Mr. Speaker, today we observe the International Day of Disabled Persons. According to the United Nations, this day offers an opportunity to foster changes in attitudes toward persons with disabilities and eliminate barriers to their full participation in all aspects of life.
No matter how far we think we have come, there is always more that can be done. We saw that even here, when my colleague from Charleswood—St. James—Assiniboia first tried to navigate the halls of Parliament.
By removing barriers to access and participation of the disabled, society wins. We gain in contributions and perspectives of disabled persons and benefit from the potential of an inclusive society.
Again, I refer to my colleague as an example. His education, experience and expertise in a number of areas are incredible resources for his community, for our party and for all Canadians. Yet in another time or place, in a less inclusive world, his contributions and potential may have been overlooked.
We must not let that happen to anyone. I urge members to celebrate the International Day of Disabled Persons and embrace its motto, “Nothing about us without us”.