Happy New Year!
Is it just us, or did 2022 fly by? Looking back on this year’s most popular stories, you’ll find favourite events making a comeback, new projects getting their start, contributions from guest writers, and much more.
Count down our top 10 most-read blog posts of 2022:
10. Fighting Ableism with Joanna Nefs of AIDE Canada
Each month, the Kamloops Self Advocate Newsletter shares stories, interviews, events and more. In February, newsletter owner Krystian Shaw connected with Joanna Nefs, the CEO of the Autism and/or Intellectual Disability Knowledge Exchange Network (AIDE Canada). Check out this excerpt of their interview to learn more about this great resource.
9. Learn How to Move & Groove with Curiko’s Hip-Hop Video Series
Back in the spring of 2022, Curiko unveiled a new video series introducing people to the world of hip hop and adaptive dance. The videos cover hip hop history and culture as well as some of the basic moves, with modifications that could work for wheelchair users and other seated dancers.
8. VIFF 2022 – Films About Disability are Authentic, Tender, and Provocative
Each fall, the Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) showcases outstanding films from Canada and around the world. This year’s VIFF line-up of neurodiversity/disability-inspired films was exceptional. The authentic, tender and provocative content delivered this year, included documentaries like OKAY! (The ASD Band Film) and narratives inspired by real life, like When Time Got Louder.
7. Celebrating Pride 2022
An inclusive community is one characterized by diversity, respect, and belonging. To mark Pride Month in June, we shared a list of celebrations taking place locally and sources of year-round queer peer support.
6. Bigger, Better, and Back in Person! The 2022 INCLUSION Art Show
After three years away, we were overjoyed to be back in Heritage Hall for our 18th annual INCLUSION Art Show! The show was a long-overdue celebration of community and creativity—you could feel the joy in the air. Relive the magic with our recap of the event and learn more about the art demos, live performances, and everything else that make this year’s show exceptional.
5. Learning About Sexual Health and Inclusion with Disability Advocate Harmony Bongat
Why are open and inclusive discussions about sex and relationships so important for people with disabilities? Disability advocate and educator Harmony Bongat wrote about her experience participating in the SIXPO (Sexuality, Inclusion, and Exploration) Festival and sharing information about sexual health and relationships.
4. posAbilities Introduces New Social Media Fellowship
In July, we welcomed our first cohort of adults with developmental disabilities to help build a Social Media Fellowship. It was the start of a journey for our fellows, learning about different social media platforms and discovering how to create content, so that one day they can become social media influencers!
3. Ways to Recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2022
Across Canada, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Our Diversity and Inclusion Committee put together a list of events and resources to help us all commemorate the day, including a toolkit from the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion and ceremonies taking place around Greater Vancouver.
2. 2022 Accessible Summer Camps in BC
We were excited to see in-person camps return this year alongside their virtual counterparts. Our list of accessible summer camps included traditional outdoor activities, fun day programs, and skill-building opportunities.
1. Run, Walk, or Roll Along These Accessible Trails in BC
It’s no surprise that our #1 post was our updated list of accessible trails in BC! In the summer months, the sunny weather offers a great opportunity to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. Not only does BC have a huge number of beautiful hiking trails, the province also has a number of accessible/universal trails that allow anyone to get out and enjoy nature.
