For more than two decades, CLBC has proudly marked the occasion of Community Inclusion Month in October. This month allows us to honour the dedication of individuals, families and community members who tirelessly work towards creating more inclusive communities and opportunities for all British Columbians, especially those with developmental disabilities.
Sash Barbour, Inclusion Ambassador and Nanaimo Sports Super Fan, is one of those people spreading inclusion and kindness in his community. His presence is a beacon of positivity at every game and event he attends in Nanaimo, whether it’s hockey, baseball or wrestling. What makes Sash truly special is his commitment to inclusion. He understands the power of belonging and shares openly why being included means so much to him.
As part of Community Inclusion Month Celebrations starting to take place around B.C., the CLBC Central Island Community Council partnered with Self Advocates of Nanaimo and the BC Self Advocacy Leadership Network to host an Arts for Inclusion Event on September 17 in Nanaimo BC. CLBC staff and the Honourable Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction and MLA for Nanaimo, were excited to take part in the festivities and connect with self-advocates leading change in their community.
Central Island Council member Alexandria Stuart explains the event as “an opportunity to raise awareness about inclusion and to recruit new members to our council. We chose an arts-based event because it’s an activity that allows people to come together and share stories and ideas while creating beautiful things with their hands.”
People on CLBC Community Councils include individuals and families who receive support from CLBC, service provider partners and community allies. These volunteers care about creating culturally safe, accessible and inclusive communities. Contact CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca to learn about volunteering on a Council in your community.
Thank you for being part of making B.C. communities places that include everyone. We hope you have a wonderful Community Inclusion Month 2024, and we look forward to recognizing and celebrating this important month next October!
Provincial Proclamation
A few of the many highlights happening around BC
- Upper Fraser Community Council Harvest Dance on October 10
- Tree planted by Kootenay Community Council and City of Trail symbolizes community’s roots of inclusion
- Victoria Facilitator celebrates new community support for drop-in hockey program
- Summer fun with South Central CLBC Community Council
- Celebrate Diverse ABILITIES – CLBC Magazine – Summer 2024 Edition
Self-Advocacy leaders share what inclusion means to them
Self Advocacy Leaders from around B.C. share video messages below about what inclusion means to them:
