Citizenship Highlights 2022 AGM Report
For many of us, citizenship is something we take for granted. It can be defined in many ways, but at its core citizenship is our sense of value and belonging. This sense of citizenship doesn’t always extend to people with disabilities. That’s why Skills Society was formed - to provide people with disabilities with the same opportunities and choices, the same ability to share their gifts and talents, and the same sense of belonging that we all enjoy. Citizenship is what we strive for every day - and it encompasses the following:
Story of Participation
Jennie’s Story
Having meaningful things to do, and sharing your gifts and talents with others is an important part of citizenship. Jennie is a friendly, thoughtful and caring young woman who works in a variety of roles where she contributes her talent for connecting with people and building community. Jennie has been working for several years as an Action Lab host, and recently took on a larger role hosting guests and supporting with the upkeep of the space. Jennie is a valued member of the Action Lab team and takes great pride in her work, always striving to create a space that is warm and welcoming for all. When asked about her job as an Action Lab host Jennie shared:
“My job means a lot to me. I just love doing it and it makes me happy. I like meeting new people and being able to make some money.”
Jennie, an Action Lab Host, working in the Action Lab
Story of Relationships
Pattie and Jamie’s Story
Relationships are an important part of citizenship - being surrounded by people who love and care about you, and being able to share your life with others. Jamie and Pattie share their life together as husband and wife. They enjoy spending time together, trying new experiences, and doing the things they love, like walks outdoors, swimming and catching a movie. They have a strong relationship founded out of love and a deep sense of care for one another. When asked what they love about each other they responded:
“She’s romantic and curious. She cares for me” - Jamie
“I clean the house and he cooks for me. We take care of each other” - Pattie
They were married on July 11th, 2018 alongside family and friends, and every year do something special to celebrate this important day. This year, they will be celebrating their 4th wedding anniversary, and have planned a getaway to the Fantasyland Hotel with a nice night out with dinner.
Pattie and Jamie celebrating their 3rd wedding anniversary
Story of Belonging
Robin’s Story
To belong includes creating shared stories and rituals with community and feeling like you are an important part of something bigger than yourself. Robin is an engaged citizen who feels a sense of belonging as a member of a Star Trek fan club that he has been a part of since 2011. Group members come together to share their passion and interest in Star Trek through live action role playing, attending local events and conventions, costuming, and chatting over a bite to eat. Robin has been watching Star Trek since he was a kid and is passionate about all things science fiction. Robin shared that the three chapters he belongs to are part of a larger community of Star Trek fans, known as Starfleet International, with over 200 members in Edmonton alone! For Robin, part of what makes life good is “being in community and having friends”. Friendships are often built by connecting with others around a shared interest. Through the Star Trek fan club, Robin is able to share his passion with others and is a valued member of the community.
Robin
Story of Rights
Michelle’s Story
Michelle is a self-advocate who for many years has been speaking out against the exclusion of people with disabilities, and was a member of the original self-advocacy group in the 1990s who developed the Rights We Want! A Statement of Our Rights and Responsibilities. As part of her advocacy work, Michelle has been an active participant and contributor to various projects, research and conferences, sharing her experiences and voicing her concerns related to rights, accessibility, and inclusion. For Michelle, what contributes to a good life are “friends and relationships”. Rights lay an important foundation for the ‘good life’ - all citizens have the right to determine their own relationships, who they like, love or are friends with. When asked about advocacy and what changes she hopes to see, Michelle shared:
“Everyone has a right to speak up. We can be a good advocate by standing up for our beliefs. I want people to be treated fairly and equally.”
Michelle, a self advocate passionate about speaking out about the rights of people with disabilities.