Organization
People First of Canada(PFC)
A national self-advocacy organization run entirely by and for people labeled with an intellectual or developmental disability, incorporating in 1991 from a grassroots movement that began in Canada in 1973. People First of Canada works on human rights, citizenship rights, accommodation rights, and language rights, and supports members to take back control of their own lives.
About
People First of Canada (Des Personnes d'Abord du Canada) grew out of the broader People First self-advocacy movement that reached Canada in 1973 when self-advocates came from across North America to discuss their rights. The first Canadian chapter opened in BC in 1974, and People First of Canada was incorporated nationally in 1991. It is explicitly described as 100% member-led.
What They Do
People First of Canada develops leadership skills among self-advocates, champions members' right to choose where and with whom they live, fights against guardianship and institutional care, and ensures people labeled with intellectual disabilities have their voices heard in law and policy. It produces accessible plain-language resources and supports chapters across the country.
Who They Serve
People First of Canada serves people who have been labeled with an intellectual or developmental disability — primarily adults — across all Canadian provinces and territories, through chapters and affiliates at the local level.
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