Allstate Insurance Company of Canada (Allstate Canada) is launching a public education campaign to combat notions of ableism.
The insurer is collaborating with Inclusion Canada – a national federation of 13 provincial-territorial associations and more than 300 local associations representing the human rights of those with intellectual disabilities – to launch the new campaign, which runs from February to April 2022. It will help Canadians define ableism and understand its impact, as well as provide a platform for people with disabilities to share their experiences and promote inclusion.
“Ableism is the belief, and practice of the belief, that people who have a disability are of less value than others,” said Inclusion Canada executive vice president Krista Carr. “Ableism leads to exclusion and marginalization across the lifespan (of people with disabilities). Segregated schooling, inaccessible communities, and high rates of poverty are all ultimately grounded in ableism.”
“We stand committed in our purpose to bring strength, experience and care to everything we do,” commented Allstate Canada CEO Ryan Michel. “This not only applies to our customers and ensuring that they are in good hands, but also in support of our community partners.”
Michel added that Inclusion Canada is working to build a more inclusive society for people with intellectual disabilities and their families, and that Allstate Canada is glad that its platform can be of use to help the non-profit educate Canadians on ableism.
In September, Allstate Canada – via the Allstate Foundation of Canada – entered into a two-year partnership with Habitat for Humanity Canada. The insurer will offer Habitat for Humanity community members access to insurance information and services, while also giving financial support to the non-profit. Allstate Canada also said that its employees would provide on-site voluntary build support for Habitat for Humanity Canada’s projects.