Episodic disability; an intersectional perspective on accommodation & belonging

Description

Over 2 million individuals in Canada are living with episodic disabilities, yet awareness of the term remains low. These disabilities, ranging from long-COVID and multiple sclerosis to arthritis, HIV,  and mental health conditions, present unique challenges and opportunities for improving the cultures of workplaces and other environments. 

The principles of Inclusions, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility Leading to Belonging (IDEAL) support the development of spaces that nurture universal belonging and build the capacity of employers and other leaders to effectively respond to the disparate experiences of persons with chronic and episodic disabilities.


This webinar explores a recent community based intersectional research project investigating barriers faced by individuals with episodic disabilities (2SLGBTQIA+, Muslims, youth, BIPOC, women and seniors), as well as the benefits of applying IDEAL principles in every environment.

Speaker 

Ingrid Palmer (she, her) is an award-winning speaker, bestselling author, and social justice consultant. She is the Principal Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility Leading to Belonging (IDEAL) Advocate at Realize.

As a visually impaired former foster kid, Palmer founded Focus On Ability to combat ableism, challenge bias, promote universal belonging, drive systemic change and debunking myths and stereotypes of stigmatized identities. Her acclaimed storytelling and writing highlights traditionally unheard perspectives of intersectionality, marginalized leadership, and community capacity.

Palmers dedication to advancing EDI principle is deeply rooted in her living experiences of early childhood trauma, foster care, disability, and gender-based violence. As an advocate, Palmer has championed issues in the housing, poverty, education, disability, and child welfare sectors. She has been instrumental in initiatives of poverty reduction, decent work, and gender equity. 

Palmer is committed to participating in creating pathways to success and opportunities for communities and individuals facing adversity. Her background in service includes Board Chair of the Child Welfare PAC, and Vice Chair of the Council of Canadians with Disabilities. 

Host

Dan Samosh is an Assistant Professor in Employment Relation at Queen’s University and Academic Co-Lead of the IDEA Incubator Hub on Transitions to Work and Career Development.

About the IDEA Speaker Series

The IDEA Speaker Series provides an opportunity to hear guest speakers talk about their efforts to create stronger and more diverse labour markets that include persons with disabilities.

Ingrid Palmer headshot