More Than A Footnote: A Research Report on Women and Girls with Disabilities in Canada

February 1, 2019

This report, developed by the DisAbled Women’s Network (DAWN) of Canada, critically examines the unique challenges and systemic barriers faced by women and girls with disabilities in Canada.

Through a gendered and intersectional lens, the report highlights significant gaps in research, policy, and program development, emphasizing the socio-economic exclusion, educational disparities, income insecurity, and prevalence of violence and discrimination experienced by this demographic. Utilizing both original and existing research, the study underscores the need for an integrated, evidence-based approach to address issues such as limited access to healthcare, housing, and employment, as well as the compounded marginalization faced by Indigenous, racialized, and LGBTQI2S women with disabilities. The report concludes with actionable recommendations aimed at fostering inclusion and equity, urging systemic reforms that prioritize the voices and experiences of women and girls with disabilities. This work serves as a foundational call to action, advocating for comprehensive strategies to achieve their full socio-political and economic participation.

Related Focus Area

Social Determinants of Health

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More Than A Footnote

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More Than A Footnote: Canada Human Rights and Treaty Obligations
More Than A Footnote: Canada Human Rights and Treaty Obligations
Related Project: Array
Resource Type: Infographic
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resource_intro_large_text: While many gender-based violence policies mention "vulnerable groups" in their preambles, women with disabilities and Deaf women are often reduced to footnotes. They are generally referred to broadly as people with disabilities or categorized as part of a vulnerable group, failing to fully address their specific needs and experiences. This infographic highlights the gap between acknowledgment and meaningful inclusion in these policies.
resource_main_content: While many gender-based violence policies mention "vulnerable groups" in their preambles, women with disabilities and Deaf women are often reduced to footnotes. They are generally referred to broadly as people with disabilities or categorized as part of a vulnerable group, failing to fully address their specific needs and experiences. This infographic highlights the gap between acknowledgment and meaningful inclusion in these policies.
additional_resource_content:
Download Link: https://dawncanada.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/footnote_poster_eng.pdf
Download Title: Download
File Type and Size: PDF (158 KB)
Download Links: Array
fusion_builder_status: active
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avada_post_views_count_today_date: 22-02-2025
More Than A Footnote: Gaps in Current Policies and Programs
More Than A Footnote: Gaps in Current Policies and Programs
Related Project: Array
Resource Type: Infographic
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resource_intro_large_text: While many gender-based violence policies mention "vulnerable groups" in their preambles, women with disabilities and Deaf women are often reduced to footnotes. They are generally referred to broadly as people with disabilities or categorized as part of a vulnerable group, failing to fully address their specific needs and experiences. This infographic highlights the gap between acknowledgment and meaningful inclusion in these policies.
resource_main_content: While many gender-based violence policies mention "vulnerable groups" in their preambles, women with disabilities and Deaf women are often reduced to footnotes. They are generally referred to broadly as people with disabilities or categorized as part of a vulnerable group, failing to fully address their specific needs and experiences. This infographic highlights the gap between acknowledgment and meaningful inclusion in these policies.
additional_resource_content:
Download Link: https://dawncanada.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/infographic_more_than_a_footnote_eng.pdf
Download Title: Download
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Download Links: Array
avada_post_views_count: 471
avada_today_post_views_count: 4
avada_post_views_count_today_date: 22-02-2025
fusion_builder_status: active
More than a Footnote : Policy Forum Summary Report 2022
More than a Footnote : Policy Forum Summary Report 2022
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resource_intro_large_text: The More than a Footnote Policy Forum Report, based on an Policy Forum of the same name hosted by DAWN Canada in December 2022, captures the outcomes of discussions on critical policy issues affecting marginalized communities. With over 100 participants, the forum addressed topics such as livelihoods, housing, gender-based violence, and Canada's international assistance. The report highlights key policy gaps and presents valuable insights and recommendations for addressing these issues, emphasizing potential avenues for meaningful change.
resource_main_content: The More than a Footnote Policy Forum Report, based on an Policy Forum of the same name hosted by DAWN Canada in December 2022, captures the outcomes of discussions on critical policy issues affecting marginalized communities. With over 100 participants, the forum addressed topics such as livelihoods, housing, gender-based violence, and Canada's international assistance. The report highlights key policy gaps and presents valuable insights and recommendations for addressing these issues, emphasizing potential avenues for meaningful change.
additional_resource_content:
Download Link: https://dawncanada.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/More_Than_A_Footnote_EN-1.pdf
Download Title: Download
File Type and Size: PDF (944 KB)
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fusion_builder_status: active
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avada_today_post_views_count: 1
avada_post_views_count_today_date: 22-02-2025
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