We are pleased to present this report, which marks another step forward in the shared efforts of governments and the disability community. Building on the vision articulated in the 1998 In Unison vision paper, this report sets the stage for a new national consensus on disability issues that brings together all sectors.

As the statistical indicators and personal stories presented in this report demonstrate, people with disabilities face significant challenges in achieving full participation in Canadian society. The effective practices stories are examples of promising initiatives under way in several sectors, in every province and territory.

We must build on this progress, learn from each other's experiences, and continue to strengthen partnerships across Canada, including persons with disabilities, employers, labour unions, community organizations, disability advocates and governments.

This report is evidence of our commitment to continue working together and to give disability issues the priority they require if this important work is to continue moving forward.

In releasing this report, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to the individuals from the disability community who shared their time, advice, and constructive criticism as the report was developed. Representatives of the five national Aboriginal organizations also participated and articulated their own perspective. We also had the benefit of research and analysis from some of Canada's top experts on disability.

Over the past year, we have consulted with representatives of a number of disability organizations. These people have been drawn from national, provincial, and territorial levels, and have helped ensure we are accountable. We recognize that future engagement will necessarily involve much more comprehensive and ongoing communication and collaboration. This report is an important step in that ongoing process, to which we are all committed. We are also committed to continued progress on these issues both within our own jurisdictions and cooperatively, and to continued work with disability organizations and consumers in drawing other sectors into the discussion and in developing policies and strategies for the future.

We will continue working together to achieve the vision of In Unison — we invite other partners and all Canadians to work with us.

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