Released on June 11, 2018
The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed June 10-16, as Deafblind Awareness Week.
Individuals are considered deafblind if they have a combined loss of both hearing and vision to the point that neither can be used as a primary source of information gathering. The combination of these sensory losses means that individuals who are deafblind may have difficulties in accessing information, learning, communicating and participating.
“I am pleased to proclaim Deafblind Awareness Week to raise our understanding and awareness of deafblindness within Saskatchewan,” Social Services Minister Paul Merriman said. “Our government thanks the Saskatchewan chapter of the Canadian Deafblind Association for the valuable services and advocacy they provide to those who are deafblind.”
The Canadian Deafblind Association (CDBA) is a non-profit organization that was formed in 1975 to promote and enhance the well-being of people who are deafblind through service provision, awareness, public education and research. There are various CDBA chapters across Canada, including one in Saskatchewan that was established in 1985.
“We believe that individuals who are deafblind can live full, meaningful lives as independently as possible with the right supports in place, such as intervenor services,” CDBA Saskatchewan Chapter Executive Director Dana Heinrichs said.
“Individuals who are deafblind should have the right to make their own choices and build the vital life skills they need to be active, contribute to their communities and thrive.”
This proclamation supports the Saskatchewan Disability Strategy by helping to create awareness and understanding of the rights of people experiencing disabilities. Saskatchewan residents and communities that have done work which aligns with the Disability Strategy are encouraged to share their accomplishments using the hashtag #SKDisability. The Saskatchewan Disability Strategy Facebook page can be found at www.facebook.com/skdisability.
For more information about CDBA, please visit www.cdbanational.com.
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For more information, contact:
Leya Moore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3610
Email: leya.moore@gov.sk.ca