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Training seminar on economic, social and cultural rights in International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) related to Disability, Toronto

Marcia Rioux smiles while pointing to a large easel displaying acronyms of U.N. conventions

Marcia Rioux outlines U.N. human rights conventions

The first DRPI Canada training on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights was held February 6th and 7th in Toronto, bringing together people with disabilities, their organizations and allies. The training was described by participants as enlightening, informative, interesting and intense. This event, made possible with the support of our local partner, the Centre for Independent Living Toronto (CILT), and a financial contribution from the Department of Canadian Heritage, facilitated the training of 15 participants in a participatory learning environment bringing together a diversity of experiences and knowledge. Participants identified shared leadership, respect for lived experience, and the focus on group input as effective elements of this training which provided a base of information on Economic, Social and Cultural rights as encompassed in ICESCR

Training participants sit around tables looking at training materials

Hard at work, participants discuss how they can practically apply rights instruments in the lives of people with disabilities

The deconstruction and applicability of these rights in relation to disability focused on increasing awareness about the central role of these rights in protecting those who are vulnerable and marginalized. The training also emphasized the importance of building a community of people with disabilities knowledgeable on these rights to effectively pass their knowledge to their communities and bring about positive social change. Participants enthusiastically supported the knowledgeable facilitation of complex materials in clear, practical and relevant ways. One participant noted This training was very informative. I learned so much I can't wait to apply it. The training materials provided participants a rich reference source they can use to disseminate and raise awareness in their communities. As one participant commented, they were absolutely certain that it will prove useful as a reference and likely many times over.

Training participants smile as they pose for a group photo

The first training group made up of community members, organizational representatives and individual advocates, pauses for a photo opportunity

With a few bumps and hiccups along the way, the first incarnation of this training was very positively received. Tapping into increased interest in this area, participants have requested ongoing group communications, updates surrounding these issues and online resources. Noting this overall success with some minor revisions to come, this training will be held in the future in other locations across Canada.