MOVEMENT. NOT CHARITY.
Building power for disabled people and caregivers across Canada
CDU unites people with disabilities and unpaid caregivers into a national, member‑led movement. We fight for income security, housing as a right, and political accountability—grounded in lived experience and evidence.
| READ THE BYLAWS | MEMBERSHIP | GET IN TOUCH |
BYLAWS
Official text with plain‑language explanations (expand any section below). Allies are welcome to join, but have no vote and cannot sit on the Board or represent any organization or government office.
Canadian Disability United (CDU) exists to unite people with disabilities and unpaid caregivers into a strong, independent movement for rights, dignity, and systemic change. Principles include the right to a national disability income, housing as a right, political accountability, and solidarity across disability and caregiving communities.
Disability includes all physical, intellectual, developmental, sensory, mental health, and chronic illness conditions. Caregiving includes unpaid family/friend supports, with explicit recognition of the exploitation of unpaid labour.
- People with disabilities (PWD) – full members with voting rights.
- Caregivers of people with disabilities – full members with voting rights.
- Allies – supporters who may participate but do not have voting rights and cannot serve on the Board or represent any organization or government office.
Dues are set on a sliding scale. Donations and small contributions may fund start‑up operations before the first AGM.
The Board must be 60% PWD and 40% caregivers, with Indigenous representation and accessibility commitments. Term limits apply. Nomination and eligibility requirements include criminal record checks where appropriate. Allies are not eligible for Board service.
Donations and contributions before the first AGM may be used to support operations. Transparent reporting is required.
CDU monitors politicians, challenges harmful policies, and holds all parties accountable through evidence‑based advocacy.
CDU commits to Indigenous partnerships, recognizing sovereignty and the rights of Indigenous disabled people and caregivers.
AGMs, Board meetings, and member meetings follow democratic and accessible processes.
The Board elects officers (Chair, Treasurer, etc.) with defined responsibilities.
Members and directors must declare and avoid conflicts of interest.
Bylaws may be amended by member vote at an AGM.
If CDU dissolves, assets must go to another disability‑led non‑profit, not to individuals.
Special start‑up rules apply in the first year to harmonize with funding provisions and Board formation.