Obstacles for, and needs of, persons with disabilities (Part 1)

12-1:30pm The Lethbridge Association for Community Living (LACL) is founded on the belief that all people are entitled to all the rights and benefits of citizenship. This includes the right to participate and be involved in the community. The citizenship that many of us take for granted can be a daily struggle for some people as they try to overcome a legacy of discrimination and isolation. Awareness is fundamental to creating a welcoming inclusive community that values the contributions and potential of all of its citizens. The speaker will provide insight into the history of segregation and the exclusion of citizens with developmental disabilities and the affect that this discrimination has on our community. He will share his thoughts on the accomplishments of our community through the community living movement, inclusive education, expanded employment opportunities and the self-advocacy movement. Having worked with families and self-advocates as they build awareness of issues that can prevent people from being meaningfully engaged in community, the speaker will help us understand some of the obstacles faced by people with disabilities in the pursuit of living rich, meaningful lives and the role that each of us can play in building welcoming communities for all. Speaker: Dave Lawson Dave has been involved in supporting people with developmental disabilities for 30 years. For the past 4 years he has been the Executive Director of the Lethbridge Association for Community Living (LACL), a local organization providing support and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities and their families in Lethbridge and area for more than 50 years.