With over 170 entries, this annotated bibliography represents the first comprehensive collection of grey literature on the right to housing for disabled people in Canada, focusing on four provinces – British Columbia, Manitoba, Nova Scotia and Ontario – as well as Canada-wide and international sources. It aims to fill a significant gap in existing research by providing a resource that captures the evolving landscape of housing rights for disabled individuals over the past 30 years.
This bibliography is particularly valuable because it highlights both progress and ongoing challenges in this area, offering a nuanced view of what has and has not changed. As grey literature often bypasses the lengthy peer review and editorial processes of academic publishing, it can provide more current and diverse insights. This is especially important for underrepresented areas and authors who might lack access to traditional publishing platforms.
Our hope is that it will serve as a crucial tool for both academic researchers and community-based groups, reflecting the lived experiences of disabled individuals and the work of non-profit organizations dedicated to service and advocacy. Ultimately, we envision this bibliography as a catalyst for political and social change, informing efforts to secure and improve the right to housing for disabled people in Canada.
A note on terminology
There is an evolving discussion over terminology in the disability community, with an argument made for using the term “disabled people” and another for using “people with disabilities.” Apart from this debate, “disabled people” reflects the social model of disability. People are disabled by external factors. We respect all arguments and everyone’s personal preferences and use both phrases in our work.