International Persons with Disabilities Day 2025: Inclusion is not a Dirty Word

Written by: Callum Denault, Athlete & Staff Member, Special Olympics Canada

8 million people. That’s how many Canadians aged 15 or older have a disability, according to a 2022 report by StatCan. At 27% of the population, that means a little more than 1 out of every 4 people in Canada has a disability of some kind. Given how common disabilities are, it would be hard to go through life without knowing someone with a disability—and events like International Day of Persons with Disabilities help people better understand and appreciate our experiences.  

Still, that doesn’t take away from the countless volunteers and donors who support non-profits like Special Olympics Canada, for no other reason than because it feels good to help others.  

I’m grateful to not only be a part of the global Special Olympics movement but also live in a country where the Special Olympics community leads the way in creating spaces where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can be themselves, supported with acceptance, inclusion and respect.  

 A disability—whether from birth or acquired later in life—shouldn’t prevent us from making choices that allow us to lead our best lives possible.  

This is why International Day of Persons with Disabilities is so important. Special Olympics Canada has always gone above and beyond to advocate for people like myself, and today serves as a powerful reminder that our voices deserve to be heard—and acted on.