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Indigenous Disability Canada's (IDC)
Indigenous Disability and Wellness Gathering
Mark your calendars for the 2026 Gathering and the 35th Anniversary of IDC/BCANDS!
November 17th, 18th, 19th, 2026 - Mary Winspear Centre
Sidney, British Columbia, Canada
About The Gathering
The 2026 Gathering will take place at the Mary Winspear Center from November 17th to November 19th, 2026, on the ancestral and traditional territories of the WSÁNEĆ people. During this event, we will also celebrate the 35th anniversary of Indigenous Disability Canada (IDC) / British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS), as well as the 12th anniversary of Indigenous Disability Awareness Month (IDAM), which has been acknowledged and proclaimed both in Canada and internationally!​
The 2026 Gathering will bring together Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments, leadership, service providers, community members, and others to learn, connect, and collaborate in addressing the unique barriers Indigenous Peoples with disabilities face.
Together, we will continue to take the necessary steps to dismantle historical and current barriers and the attitudes and perceptions that negatively impact Indigenous Peoples with disabilities. By forming new and expanded partnerships, we can collaborate and identify the best practices for the broader disability and health sectors. Together, we will continue to shape a Canada that is inclusive and responsive to the needs of all peoples and abilities.​
Why Should We Gather?
Indigenous Peoples with disabilities often encounter unique jurisdictional barriers, restrictive policies, and discrimination when seeking the support they require for their specific disability-related needs.
Daily, Indigenous Peoples with disabilities face several challenges, including anti-Indigenous racism, disability discrimination, poverty, and limited access to services and communities. These factors contribute to the exclusion and lack of recognition of Indigenous Peoples with disabilities as equal members of our communities. While there have been some positive developments, this population continues to be marginalized, and the current state of the world further exacerbates these conditions.
According to Statistics Canada, the prevalence of disabilities among Indigenous Peoples is higher than the national average, conservatively estimated at 35%. Other research indicates that the overall disability rates for Indigenous Peoples in Canada can be up to three times higher than the national rate within certain age groups. Additionally, it is known that Indigenous women face a significantly increased likelihood of experiencing disabilities.
Together, we can make a difference; together, we can bring about change. Join us in November 2026 and be part of the movement for the change we need!
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BENEFITS OF ATTENDING THE 2026 GATHERING
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Learn about the latest news and initiatives relating to Indigenous disability in Canada;
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Participate in the 12th anniversary of Indigenous Disability Awareness Month and the 35th anniversary of IDC/BCANDS;
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Learn from Indigenous and non-Indigenous leadership, service providers, advocates, and governments about the barriers, priorities, and opportunities relevant to your organization and/or community;
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Interact with Speakers, Delegates, Colleagues, and Vendors from the disability sector across Canada;
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Experience on-site disability and health information and resources at the numerous Vendor tables;
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Enjoy a welcome 2026 Gathering bag with information and swag, three hot breakfasts and lunches, beverage breaks, daily door prizes, and more;
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Enjoy the Wednesday evening Mix & Mingle Social and Dinner;
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Attend the presentation of the IDC / BCANDS 2026 National Indigenous Partnership Award; and
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Enjoy the numerous attractions beautiful Sidney has to offer!
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