On episode 7 of the Accessibility Ally Podcast, host Corrie Melanson speaks with Vicky Levack, a human rights activist from Halifax, Nova Scotia. Vicky has cerebral palsy, uses a power wheelchair, and is a spokesperson for the Disability Rights Coalition (DRC). She is known for her wit, determination, and passion for equity.
Vicky shares the challenges she and many other people with disabilities face every day, especially around poverty, employment, transportation, and housing. She explains that people with disabilities are often forced to live below the poverty line, and the dream of reaching even that low standard is heartbreaking. Employment is especially tough because of barriers like unreliable transportation. For example, Access-a-Bus services require booking a week in advance, making a regular job almost impossible for Vicky. Because of these challenges, Vicky created her work path using her voice and advocacy skills. Still, she relies on provincial disability supports, which include things like financial support, independent living support, family support and more. But Vicki worries that if she earns “too much,” she’ll lose those crucial benefits.
A big part of the conversation focuses on Vicky’s current housing, made possible through a pilot project run by Independent Living Nova Scotia (ILNS). Thanks to a donated van and shared caregiving services, Vicky now has the flexibility to live in the community instead of an institution. But she points out that while the project has been successful, it’s still called a “pilot,” and she’s urging the government to recognize it as a proven, permanent solution.
At just 21 (in 2012), Vicky was placed in a nursing home. These facilities are meant for seniors with complex medical needs, but the government decided she was “too disabled” to live in the community with appropriate support. Vicky and the Disability Rights Coalition (DRC) brought forward a human rights case in Nova Scotia to challenge the lack of community-based services for people with disabilities.
After a long legal battle, the courts ruled in favour of the DRC, through a decision called the Human Rights Remedy. The decision revealed systemic discrimination in the province. The government was ordered to close all institutions for people with disabilities within five years and to provide proper community-based support.
Today, Vicky continues her activism. She wants to bring a community-centred, social justice voice to local politics, especially because she feels current leaders often prioritize business over people. For employers, Vicky has a clear message: Don’t assume that hiring people with disabilities will be difficult or expensive. She reminds us that if someone applies for a job, it’s because they know they can do it. And if you are worried about expenses, research shows most workplace accommodations cost under $500.
Vicky’s story is a powerful reminder that access to basic rights like housing, work, and transportation is still out of reach for many, but change is possible. She leaves us with hope, noting that legal orders and community collaboration are pushing progress forward. And, as Vicky says, “My life is a group project.” None of us succeed alone, and we all have a role to play in making sure everyone is included.
Learn about accessible hiring in this Tip Sheet from Sea Change’s Accessibility Resource Hub!