This research report offers an interdisciplinary literature review on the notions of vulnerability, disability and handicap, crossing ontological, relational and structural approaches. It analyzes how these notions are defined and represented in political, legal and academic discourse, highlighting the impact of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) policies. The agentivity of people with disabilities is addressed through critical theories, including Crip theory, and the temporal dimension of individual trajectories.
The report also traces the historical development of public policies and social movements for disability in Canada and Quebec. It paints a portrait of the players involved, including community organizations, researchers, activists and philanthropic foundations. Recent statistical data support the analysis.
The report underlines the importance of thinking about disability from a systemic and inclusive perspective, linking recognition, social justice and empowerment. This document is the first research report of the “Inclusion of people with disabilities in Canada and internationally: a look at philanthropy in action” project.
To read the Research Paper : Vulnerability, autonomy, and agency: toward a renewed approach to charitable philanthropy
