The Government of Saskatchewan has officially proclaimed June as Deafblind Awareness Month, recognizing the unique experiences of people in the Deafblind community and the organizations that support them.
"The Government of Saskatchewan is proud to recognize Deafblind Awareness Month, and we value the important work of Canadian National Institute for the Blind, Deafblind Community Services," Social Services Minister Terry Jenson said in a statement. "We look forward to continuing to build strong, inclusive communities for persons with disabilities alongside our disability services community partners."
Deafblind Awareness Month is an annual observance that highlights the challenges faced by individuals with combined vision and hearing loss. It also aims to increase public understanding of the barriers these individuals face and the supports that can help improve accessibility and inclusion.
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Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) Deafblind Community Services (DBCS) is among the leading organizations providing specialized services to the Deafblind community. Its programs across the country include intervenor services, life-skills training and advocacy that help people with dual sensory loss live more independently.
"We commend the Government of Saskatchewan for proclaiming June as Deafblind Awareness Month and for its ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion," said Sherry Grabowski, vice-president of CNIB Deafblind Community Services. "This recognition is an important step in amplifying the voices of the Deafblind community and raising awareness of the unique barriers they face. We look forward to working together to ensure every person with a dual sensory loss can thrive and participate fully in their communities."
The provincial proclamation follows Saskatchewan’s release of its first Accessibility Plan on Dec. 3, 2024. Mandated under The Accessible Saskatchewan Act, the plan outlines government priorities for the next three years, including improved access to public services, more inclusive workplaces, and enhancements to the accessibility of government websites, buildings and provincial parks.
More information on Saskatchewan's accessibility initiatives is available at accessiblesk.saskatchewan.ca.
Details about CNIB Deafblind Community Services can be found at deafblindservices.ca.