Destination BC: Applications Now Open for Accessibility and Inclusion Committee

Applications are now open for Destination BC’s Accessibility and Inclusion Committee (AIC). This new advisory committee will support the advancement of accessibility and inclusion at Destination BC in the pursuit of a more inclusive and accessible tourism industry.

The AIC will support the meaningful implementation of the Accessible British Columbia Act and Regulation, and support Destination BC’s goal of identifying, removing, and preventing barriers for Destination BC employees and those interacting with the organization.

The AIC will also support Destination BC’s ongoing commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, including advising on Destination BC’s programs and policies pertaining to accessibility and inclusivity, as well as supporting ways to strengthen partnerships with leading accessibility and inclusivity sector groups and associations.

The AIC will consist of a minimum of eight and up to eleven appointed members, the majority of which will be either persons with disabilities and/or individuals who support, or are from organizations that support persons with disabilities. At least one member will be an Indigenous person and, in accordance with the Accessible British Columbia Act, the composition of the committee, to the extent possible, will reflect the diversity of persons in British Columbia and the diversity of people with disabilities in British Columbia.

The appointed roles are for up to a three-year term beginning September 1, 2023. Committee members will receive an honorarium for meetings and reimbursement for related travel expenses. Applicants are encouraged to highlight their experience, lived experience, and ways in which they may support and promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in their Application Form. This call for applications is not limited to those within the tourism industry.

Destination BC will review applications and ensure that all applicants are aware of next steps in the process and/or outcomes of the selection process.

Application Process

Destination BC invites interested individuals to complete the online application form no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 30, 2023. Alternatively, you can download a Word version of the Application Form and submit it to deia@destinationbc.ca by 5:00 p.m. on April 30, 2023. If you have questions or require more support, please email deia@destinationbc.ca.

More information on the new Accessibility & Inclusion Committee, its mandate and terms of reference are available online at www.destinationbc.ca/aic. Learn more about Destination BC’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Strategy at www.destinationbc.ca/deia.

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“We believe that authentic inclusion happens when we meaningfully and actively engage individuals with lived experience, and we are committed to uplifting the voices of equity-deserving groups in all aspects of our work,” says Richard Porges, President and CEO, Destination BC. “Including a diverse range of identities and experiences on this committee is critical and will lead us to more thoughtful and inclusive decision-making around the development and improvement of accessible tourism products, services, and activities–ensuring more equitable outcomes for all.”