SALN members and supporters get together virtually to learn from each other and share experiences:
Back row (left to right): Jillian Glennie (supporter), Julia Kim (supporter), Lorie Sherritt, David Sherritt, Jo-Anne Gauthier, Arlene Schouten (supporter). Second row (left to right): Krista Milne, Nolda Ware (supporter), Charmly Smith (supporter), Michaela Robinson. Third row (left to right): Jessica Humphrey (supporter), Roxci Bevis (supporter), Michael McLellan, Kara Anderson. Bottom row (left to right): Manjeet Ghangass, Alexander Magnussen, Bryce Schaufelberger.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March, the recently-formed B.C. Self Advocate Leadership Network (SALN) knew they had to act fast to make sure the voices and experiences of people with diverse abilities were loud and clear and in the forefront of decision making. They knew this wasn’t a time for token representation, but rather an opportunity to demonstrate their leadership and essential role in the community living and disability sector in this province.
SALN was formed in the Spring of 2019 and is made up of key self advocacy groups including BC People First, Self Advocates of Semiahmoo and the Mission and Abbotsford Self Advocacy Groups. Over the last few months the group has met virtually twice a week to support one another, stay on top of daily news and updates and figure out ways to support others across B.C.
Together with their supporters and allies, SALN has created eight news sheets with comments, questions and stories to demonstrate the lived experience of people with diverse abilities during this time. These went directly to government and decision makers and have played an important role in ensuring people’s safety, rights and dignity.
In addition, the group has worked together to ensure access to plain language information by creating a website dedicated to tools and resources about how to stay healthy, safe and connected during COVID-19. They have produced a video series focusing on topics like “How are you coping?” and “How are you independent?” along with podcasts that share personal stories and advice to others who may be struggling with isolation.
SALN members represent the self advocate voice on the Reimagining Community Inclusion Advisory committee and played an integral role in updating the essential visitor policy in hospitals across the province.
Here is how being part of SALN has brought hope and connection for members of the self advocacy community:
“I like it when we work together as a team and the way we came together in this pandemic. SALN showed that we can stand up and have a voice and take action for ourselves and for others. We have made positive changes.”
– Krista Milne, SALN member
“It was important for us to talk openly about how people’s lives were affected by COVID-19 and how they were coping. SALN was a place to talk about and share what the fears were and what strategies people were using to deal with their fears.”
– Michaela Robinson, SALN member
“It feels like self advocates finally have a provincial voice.”
– Michael McLellan, SALN member
“SALN is important because we come together to figure things out, like issues that matter to self advocates. We are not just all talk. We want to get things done – we act.”
– Jo-Anne Gauthier, SALN member
“A thing I feel is important about SALN is the way we are able to approach lawmakers to help change law and policies that affect self advocates and all people with disabilities.”
– David Sherritt, SALN member
Connect with the Self Advocacy Leadership Network:
Website – www.salnbc.com
Facebook page – facebook.com/SALNBC
Youtube – SALN’s Channel