Canadians with disabilities aspire to create a society whereby everyone is treated with dignity and respect – a society with opportunities to live life to its fullest and take advantage of what society has to offer. Independent Living enables people with disabilities to self-actualize and fulfill their rights and responsibilities as Canadian citizens. We all want to belong and contribute.

Independent Living is a philosophy, a way of viewing oneself and a way of society viewing people with disabilities. It is a matter of perception. When individuals with disabilities have control over the decision-making process and the services that enable them to participate in all aspects of society – this is the new perspective.

This philosophy is facilitated by Independent Living Canada and its network of member Independent Living (IL) Centres. The IL Centres provide a focal point in local communities that facilitates this new perspective on disability. The disability is not the problem; rather, the disabling conditions in society are. When barriers are removed, individuals with disabilities have greater choice and control over the supports that they need and the resources to fully participate in reducing barriers to mainstream society.

“Independent Living” embodies choice, control, equal access and integration at the community level. Regardless of the  context or issue – access to amenities, transportation, health, education, entertainment, recreation or employment and training – Independent Living is a means of supporting individuals through their own unique process to these ends. Independent Living is as much a process as it is a goal.

The term ‘Independent Living’ as defined by people with disabilities does not mean doing things for yourself, or living on your own. It means having choice and control over the assistance and/or equipment/assistive devices needed for daily life. It means having access to amenities that society has to offer such as housing, transport and health services. It also includes access to employment, entertainment, education and training opportunities.

Independent Living Canada and its member IL Centres work with individuals with disabilities to have greater choices and control over how support is provided.

This philosophy is exemplified at local IL Centres and the ripple effect of the principles and practice of this philosophy is transferable to mainstream service providers, businesses, public sector, educational facilities and government programs and policies.