About Us

Inclusion BC is a provincial federation whose members include people with intellectual disabilities, families and community agencies. 

The Inclusion BC provincial office provides support, education and advocacy where and when it's needed, breaking down barriers and building communities that include people of all abilities.

What we do

• Provide individual advocacy and community referral support
• Advocate at a systems level for policy change
• Publish resources and host regional workshops and provincial conferences
• Promote inclusion through public awareness initiatives and campaigns

What is an intellectual disability?

An intellectual disability affects an individual's intellectual development and is usually present from the time they are born or from an early age.

This disability varies greatly and society provides accommodations that promote the unique and diverse abilities of each person. Real inclusion takes the onus off the person with the disability and recognizes our collective responsibility to ensure that individualized supports are in place so that everyone can contribute as full citizens.

Historically, people with intellectual disabilities have been segregated from mainstream society. The result is that many of us have never met a person with this disability, but we've been deeply influenced by a variety of myths and stereotypes regarding their capabilities.

See our FAQ page for other commonly asked questions.

Our History

In the past, individuals with intellectual disabilities were often labelled "mentally retarded" or "mentally handicapped." Many were placed in institutions, segregated schools or workplaces with little or no pay. Inclusion BC was founded by parents who dreamed of a better life for their sons and daughters. They wanted their children to learn in school, have friends, and be welcome in their communities.

Over the years, Inclusion BC has grown to include individuals, families, volunteers, and over 70 associations dedicated to making sure that people with intellectual disabilities are able to enjoy their right to lead active and productive lives in their communities. Read more about our history.

Our goal is to make it possible for every person, whatever their ability, to live and participate as a full citizen in their community.

Our Vision

A world where we all belong.

Our Mission

We are a federation working with partners to build community and to enhance the lives of children and youth with special needs, adults with intellectual disabilities, and their families by supporting abilities, promoting action and advancing rights, responsibilities and social justice.

Statement of Values and Principles

We believe:

• in the assurance of life, dignity and respect for all
• that children are best nurtured by a family that knows, loves and honours them for who they are
• that all children have the right to be educated in regular classrooms with appropriate levels of support
• that adults have a right to choose where and with whom they will make a home
• that relationships and friendships are essential to enrich our lives
• that all people have the dignity of taking risks
• that all individuals are entitled to enough money to have a reasonable quality of life
• that all individuals are entitled to the services and supports required to ensure their full participation in our society
• that real work means real pay
• that each person can determine their own needs and make their own decisions, and when necessary, must receive the support to do so
• that the involvement of families and support networks contributes to everyone's safety and well-being
• that services and supports must be delivered in a way that respects an individual's diverse history, culture, race, religion and sexual orientation
• that remembering and sharing our history will help guide and build our vision for the future
• that inclusive communities enrich the lives of all citizens

Read our social policy positions here.