March of Dimes Canada (MODC) is deeply disappointed and concerned by Prime Minister Mark Carney’s decision to exclude the position of Minister of Disability Inclusion from his first post-election federal Cabinet. 

Upholding the rights of people with disabilities is fundamental to any well-functioning democracy. People with disabilities experience marginalization, discrimination, social exclusion, and poverty at rates far higher than other groups in Canada. These experiences affect people’s ability to access income security benefits, housing, education, justice, employment, healthcare, and many more important programs and services.  

Prime Minister Carney had an opportunity to publicly demonstrate his commitment to advancing the priorities of people with disabilities in Canada. He chose not to do so. We can’t – as an organization focused on achieving a barrier-free society for all people – accept this decision in good conscience.  

“By excluding the Minister of Disability Inclusion from his Cabinet, Prime Minister Carney has sidelined the voices and lived experiences of more than eight million Canadians with disabilities in critical policy discussions that shape our daily lives,” said Len Baker, MODC’s President. “We urge Prime Minister Carney to reconsider this decision at the earliest opportunity and to demonstrate a genuine commitment to better representing and serving people with disabilities across Canada.” 

In the meantime, we’ll continue our work with the government and Cabinet to advance the interests of people with disabilities on vital issues, including access to housing, income security, employment equity, representation, and more. This work matters and must continue without interruption. 

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Brian Hill (he/him) 

Manager, Communications 

bhill@marchofdimes.ca 

873-355-9289