Partners’ Day…Following in large footsteps!

From the moment they entered Complexe sportif Claude-Robillard, the 140 participants -- a record! -- were warmly received by a certain group of youngsters with an auditory disability: members of the White Glove Gang. Taking up their pre-set positions, the group helped set the tone for the day.

Working in partnership -- the prevailing theme of the day -- was highlighted against the backdrop of communication. Real communication with persons living with a disability can be easy, a fact illustrated by the youngsters who took great pleasure acting out scenarios with the day’s super host, Pierre Morin. Pierre showed participants what NOT to do when communicating with persons living with an auditory disability. And to help everyone out, what could be better than learning a few signs in Quebec Sign Language? All in attendance did so with great interest.

Still on the subject of communication, Thérèse Colin, regional committee co-ordinator for a grouping of associations representing persons with an intellectual disability, and Sylvie Rocque, associate professor of educational psychology and andragogy at the Université de Montréal and co-director of Groupe DÉFI-apprentissage, gave a joint presentation entitled Accessible Written Communication for Persons with an Intellectual Disability: A Fundamental Right. Accounts from 2 people who themselves live with the disability convinced those in attendance as to the importance of their research. For more information, please visit the City of Montreal’s web site (www2.ville.montreal.qc.ca/accessimple), which has some examples of “altêrnativ" spelling. Please also consult AlterGo’s web site at: www.altergo.net.

Four discussion groups featuring a series of “success stories" galvanized participants who drew inspiration from their colleagues’ experiences (please see Discussion groups).

Special guests

Jean-Marie Lapointe, spokesperson for the Défi sportif, joined by Jonathan Larose, decorated athlete and one-time National Bank Défi sportif Champion, kept their audience abuzz about the Défi sportif, a sports event whose stature is well recognized. Beneath the smiles, representatives from the City and the various other organizations undeniably had their rallying point.

Michel Prescott, vice-president of the City of Montreal’s executive committee, also responsible for sports and recreation services, was in attendance, underlining the importance of partnership between the various levels of government and associations.

The day concluded with a demonstration of Nanbudo, the first martial art adapted to persons with disabilities. Nanbudo, based on the creation of life and natural elements, was a hit with the audience (please see Nanbudo).

The final word goes to a participant: "The hosts, the discussion groups and the presentations help us search the soul while enjoying a heavenly time."
See you next year!