Research and Knowledge: a Key for a Better Future
Despite the numerous stories of persons with disabilities achieving their life goals and thriving, they still face the struggle of society’s response to their condition. Currently, nearly 22% of Canada’s population aged 15 and over are living with some form of disability. Moreover, this population endure significantly higher rates of unemployment and poverty. Acording to Statistics Canada, as the prevalence of disabilities becomes more severe, the probability of being hired decreases and the probability of living in poverty increases even more. This situation, however, does not affect everyone in the same manner. For instance, while men with disabilities are more likely to report negative educational experiences, women with disabilities were less likely to report attending a special education school. These gender gaps are also extended to others economic aspects. On average, women with disabilities have lower personal income than men with disabilities and men and women without disabilities.