Global-Report-Living-Colour-dr2-2

Inclusive Communities = Stronger Communities
GLOBAL REPORT ON ARTICLE 19: THE RIGHT TO LIVE AND BE INCLUDED IN THE COMMUNITY
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in the community but also the elements of what is
necessary to achieve inclusion. We learned from families
and persons with intellectual disabilities that physical
presence in the community is necessary, but not a
sufficient condition for being included.
Article 19 provides a framework for thinking about the
necessary elements for achieving full inclusion. In addition
to the main commitment that, “States Parties to the present
Convention recognize the equal right of all persons with
disabilities to live in the community, with choices equal to
others, and shall take effective and appropriate measures to
facilitate full enjoyment by persons with disabilities of this
right and their full inclusion and participation in the
community…”, the article specifically identifies three interrelated
measures to achieve this right: Choice, support and
inclusion.
19 (a) clearly requires that people have choice in where
they live and with whom. “Persons with disabilities have
the opportunity to choose their place of residence and
where and with whom they live on an equal basis with
others and are not obliged to live in a particular living
arrangement;”
19 (b) refers to the kinds of supports including services
that a person may require to live and be included in the
community, “Persons with disabilities have access to a range
of in-home, residential and other community support
services, including personal assistance necessary to support
living and inclusion in the community, and to prevent
isolation or segregation from the community;”
19 (c) describes the need for inclusion in community,
“Community services and facilities for the general population
are available on an equal basis to persons with disabilities
and are responsive to their needs.”
In listening to the key messages from families and selfadvocates
about their vision of inclusion as well as the