IDEA Forum

How often do you think about your ability to navigate the space you are in?

⚡️Able-bodied people can navigate most public spaces, such as sidewalks, buildings, and public transportation, without difficulty. They can also use most services and amenities, such as fitness centers, movie theaters, and public restrooms, without any accommodation.

By acknowledging these privileges, we can work to eliminate barriers and ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to opportunities and resources.

Quote from Dr. Joy Angela DeGruy — whose research focuses on the intersection of racism, trauma, violence and American chattel slavery.

Sharing some important terminology as part of our IDEA Glossary series. Let’s talk about Colourism:

⚡️Colourism (sometime referred to as shadeism) is closely related to texturism and phenotypical racial bias.

⚡️Colourism is rooted in white supremacy as it prioritizes value in proximity to whiteness.

⚡️Colourism often has a different impact men and women; it’s ingrained nature within different cultures is varied and nuanced.

Short answer? YES!

Longer Answer: Yes! We all do, and in our daily lives it’s easy to overlook the privileges we possess. From the languages we speak to the locations we call home, various aspects of our identities shape the way we experience the world.

⚡️To help individuals navigate this self-reflection journey, I’ve developed a Privilege Checklist (an interactive PDF guide)

⚡️When we become self-aware, we can better leverage our privileges to advocate for those who may not have the same advantages.

Download the Privilege Checklist:http://ideaforum.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Privilege-Checklist-Jan-2024.pdf

1960

That was the year that First Nations women and men were able to exercise their right to vote.

⚡ Although First Nations men could vote from 1869 onward, it was only if they gave up their Indian status.

⚡ During the First and Second World Wars, First Nations men and women who served in the military were given the right to vote.

⚡️However, it wasn't until 1960 that First Nations women and men got the vote no matter where they live and without giving up their Indian status.

Learn more about key milestones in voting rights via Elections Canada: https://electionsanddemocracy.ca/voting-rights-through-time-0/brief-history-federal-voting-rights-canada