Every February, Jewish communities worldwide observe Jewish Disabilities Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAAIM)—a time to recognize the importance of accessibility and ensure that people with disabilities and their families are fully included in Jewish life. But while JDAAIM shines a spotlight on the issue, meaningful inclusion is an ongoing effort that must extend beyond a single month.
In Winnipeg, the Jewish Federation’s Accessibility and Inclusion sub-committee has made significant strides over the past two years, working to break down barriers and create a more welcoming community. Their initiatives have included:
- Hosting an event with the Winnipeg Police Service to improve interactions between law enforcement and people with disabilities.
- Developing an accessibility checklist for Jewish organizations to help make communal spaces more inclusive.
- Co-hosting a screening of Shoelaces with Rady JCC, highlighting the realities of living with disabilities.
- Organizing a Zoom lunch and learn on January 28 to educate local organizations on accessibility best practices.
These efforts are vital, as 43% of Jewish community members report living with disabilities to some degree, according to the latest 2021 census data. True accessibility benefits not just those with disabilities, but also their caregivers, families, and the broader community.
Embracing Visibility and Understanding
One recent initiative raising awareness is the hidden disabilities sunflower symbol, which reminds us that many disabilities are not immediately visible. This growing movement underscores the need for a more thoughtful, proactive approach to inclusion—one that recognizes that anyone can develop a disability at any stage of life.
“We encourage all Jewish organizations to take a proactive approach to accessibility so that their programs and services truly reflect the community’s needs,” the Federation’s inclusion team shared. “By making our spaces more inclusive, we create a stronger, more connected Jewish community for everyone.”
As the push for greater inclusion continues, the Federation invites more volunteers to join the effort, ensuring that Jewish life remains welcoming and accessible to all—today, tomorrow, and every day of the year.