It’s been an overwhelming few days for Craig Reid, who took home top honours at the recent Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission virtual awards.
The Human Rights Commission held their annual awards ceremony on December 10th, shining a spotlight on those who are working to bring equality where it doesn’t exist.
Thank you to Lt gov @judy_foote for taking on the challenge of a virtual @NLhumanrights award ceremony. You made me feel at ease and it was truly enjoyable. I hope we carry forward the webx it makes the awards more inclusive. Even in these times there are positives takeaways. pic.twitter.com/wVKQ4eKQ92
— Craig Reid (@Disabilitynl) December 11, 2020
Craig Reid, has been recognized for his efforts to support persons with disabilities, being named the 2020 Human Rights Award winner. It’s awarded to a person who has made and/or continues to make a meaningful contribution to advancing and furthering human rights in the province. Reid acquired his own disability later in life.
Reid says just to be considered in the crew of nominees was amazing in itself.
But to be the recipient, he says that’s the finest pat on the back you can get from your peers. He calls himself blessed.
We could all learn a lot about #universaldesign and advocacy from Craig Reid. pic.twitter.com/RXvLXKiBwk
— NLhumanrights (@NLhumanrights) December 10, 2020
Reid says one of his biggest concerns right now is the province’s aging demographic and increasing population of persons with disabilities.
He explains that right now 25 per cent of the province lives with a disability, and by the time a child, born today, graduates from university, the province will have moved to a society in which 50 per cent of the population are persons with disabilities.
Reid says they really need true investment and core funding for community-based organizations for persons with disabilities. Right now, he says most are grossly under-funded as some can’t get to the table to pay light bills or staff, yet annually the demand on these organizations increase.
