News release details

Technology, dance, dog showcase possibilities for persons with disabilities Winnipeg –

Winnipeg – December 6, 2016 – The Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) will showcase the capabilities of people who live with disabilities this Saturday on International Human Rights Day, offering free admission from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In recognition of the 10^th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the CMHR is working with members of its Inclusive Design Advisory Committee and partners in the local disability community to demonstrate how assistive technology and inclusive attitudes can promote human rights and change lives.

What: International Human Rights Day at the Museum

When: Saturday, December 10

Where: CMHR, 85 Israel Asper Way

• The Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) will show visitors how technology helps people with vision challenges overcome obstacles to employment and independent living. Assistive technologies will be demonstrated all day in the Level 2 Canadian Journeys gallery, along with an opportunity to learn the Braille alphabet.
• Open Access Resource Centre will lead a family activity with devices that enable non‐verbal people to communicate. Visitors will be shown how to use the technology to "purchase" items from a mock storefront set up on the Level 5 PCL Terrace between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• CNIB Independent Living Skills Specialist Tracy Garbutt and his guide dog Kurt will give a presentation on their relationship and answer visitors' questions at 2 p.m. on the Level 6 Carolyn Sifton Foundation Terrace.
• The renowned 100 Decibels troupe presents a Deaf mime performance at 12 p.m. in Bonnie & John Buhler Hall near the main entrance on Level 1.
• Society of Manitobans with Disabilities' All Abilities Dancers, consisting of differently abled performers (including those with mobility challenges), share their joy of dance in a show at 1 p.m. in Bonnie & John Buhler Hall, followed by a discussion with the audience.
• Seven American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters and two intervenors who help Deaf‐blind people communicate through touch signals will be positioned throughout the Museum during the day to assist visitors and answer questions about their work.
• A quiet space will be designated on Level 4 off the Actions Count gallery to serve the needs of visitors with autism spectrum disorder and others who may need a non‐stimulating environment.