Everybody Belongs 2024 – Nanaimo

“The impact of this experience is beyond words. I feel empowered and deeply moved by the stories shared. It’s like finding my life’s purpose, and I can’t wait to see where it leads. Thank you!” – Conference Attendee

In the heart of Nanaimo, the Vancouver Island Conference Centre hosted over 500 people for an extraordinary three-day event. Everybody Belongs 2024 was more than just a conference; it was a celebration of connection, learning, and joy.

The event kicked off with noticeable excitement as attendees picked up their name badges, greeted friends old and new, and finally settled in for the warmth of Elder Lolly Good’s welcoming words at the opening keynote panel. The energy was infectious as Good invited attendees to pick drums and rattles echoed through the venue as Good invited attendees to join in making music together.

The opening keynote continued with poignant stories from a panel of speakers about the intersection of disability and Indigeneity. Randy Fred, a Nuu-Chah-Nulth Elder and writer, shared his journey to academia with humour and heart. The Reconciliation Theatre Society showcased the power of inclusion through the performing arts. Lastly, Evan Jolicoeur from Community Living BC spoke passionately about a commitment to Indigenous cultural safety.

Day two brought discussions on accessibility and inclusion to the forefront, featuring government officials like Minister Sheila Malcolmson and Mayor Leonard Krog. Their comments added insights into the relationships between government and the community living sector, including an announcement by MLA Malcolmson that Shane Simpson has been appointed as CLBC’s new board chair and will succeed Michael Prince in that role starting at the end of June.

Workshops offered a deeper dive into real-life stories and experiences, from Painting the Turtle Island Legend with Cree Artist James Groening to Exploring Community Building with Christian and Tamara Kulusic. Attendees explored topics ranging from sexuality to microboards and other alternative funding models, to using social media to affect political change. 

 

Attendees left with renewed determination and gratitude. One remarked, “The conference gave me the courage to keep fighting.” Another found hope and inspiration they didn’t know existed, vowing to advocate for change beyond their previous limits.

This transformative event wouldn’t have been possible without the support of local organizations like the Nanaimo Association for Community Living, the Clay Tree Society, the BC Self Advocacy Leadership Network, and all of our generous sponsors. We are humbled by their commitment to supporting inclusion and accessibility in BC.

We are already looking forward to Everybody Belongs 2025 in Richmond, which will celebrate 70 years of Inclusion BC, and be co-hosted with our national partners at Inclusion Canada. 

 

 

Thank you to our sponsors!