Co-directors of the Canadian Institute for Inclusion and Citizenship (CIIC), Tim Stainton (left) and Rachelle Hole (right), along with Jo-Anne Gauthier (centre), a member of the CIIC Provincial Advisory Board, proudly accept the Renata Shearer Award on behalf of the institute.
The Canadian Institute for Inclusion and Citizenship (CIIC)—UBCO’s research institute focused on promoting social justice, equality and wellbeing of all citizens—has received the esteemed Renata Shearer Award.
Presented by the Vancouver Branch of the United Nations Association at an in-person event December 6, the annual award celebrates individuals and organizations making significant contributions to advancing human rights, dignity and justice in British Columbia. In announcing the award, the United Nations Association in Canada, Vancouver Branch, commended CIIC for their exceptional work.
“This well-deserved recognition is a testament to [CIIC’s] unwavering dedication to advocating for, and advancing the rights and inclusion of, persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The tireless efforts have not only set a standard of excellence but also align seamlessly with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 10, which emphasizes reducing inequalities and promoting social, economic and political inclusion for all.”
As Canada’s only university-based research centre focused exclusively on social policy and full inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, CIIC has long been at the forefront of advocacy and research. Its work not only advances the rights of marginalized communities but also services as a powerful catalyst for societal change.
“The transformative impact of CIIC’s work resonates deeply, inspiring others to champion the values of equity, dignity and respect,” said UN person. “This commitment strengthens the foundation of a society that values the contributions of all individuals, regardless of ability, and moves us closer to achieving a more inclusive and equitable world.”
For CIIC co-director Tim Stainton, the recognition carries profound significance.
“The CIIC grounds much of its work in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities,” he says. “To be recognized by the United Nations Association of Canada is a wonderful confirmation of our work and focus. More importantly, it helps the issue come to a broader public.”
Distinguished by its collaborative approach, CIIC prioritizes partnerships with individuals with disabilities, their families, advocacy organizations and policymakers, says Stainton.
“We work in partnership to ensure our work has direct and meaningful real-world impact. We strive to take our research ideas from the community and, as much as possible, let them set our agenda and co-create with them to help ensure our work is meaningful and relevant to those with lived experience.”
Renata Shearer was a tireless advocate for equality and human rights. The award that bears her name serves as a lasting tribute to her legacy of promoting dignity and social justice for all. In addition to honouring its recipients, it helps celebrate International Human Rights Day, which takes place each year on December 10 and commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948.