Member Voices: International Day of Persons with Disabilities and the Importance of Union Education in the Workplace
November 26, 2025
Reflecting on my attendance at the Canadian Labour Congress’s (CLC) Winter School—twice now—I strongly encourage all FSA members who identify as individuals with disabilities to consider taking part. The FSA TEAM program scholarship supported my enrolment in the course Return to Work/Duty to Accommodate, which remains the most impactful course I’ve taken in my life. My sincere thanks to the FSA for supporting my TEAM application.
This course helped me understand the systems meant to ensure that barriers to employment are removed. For example, did you know that the duty to accommodate stems directly from section 15 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms? In a sense, these equality rights supersede other laws in Canada and British Columbia—an important and empowering thing to know.
I encourage members to explore the upcoming CLC Winter School program and consider submitting a TEAM application. We need more FSA members who are deeply aware of the return to work and duty to accommodate requirements in the workplace.
This course also has direct relevance to current accessibility initiatives in BC. Under the British Columbia Accessibility Act (2021) and its accompanying regulations, BCIT published an accessibility plan in 2023 and now provides a feedback form for anyone who identifies barriers in our workplace. As part of the ongoing accessibility plan, working groups have been established—and we need more FSA members involved. Please ask around to find out how to participate. Your involvement helps ensure that the perspectives of faculty and staff are reflected in this important work.
Education from a union perspective is empowering. As working people with disabilities, the skills and knowledge we gain help us support each other more effectively—and help us become better advocates for ourselves and our colleagues.
Jamie Finley