MEDIA ADVISORY - Respect Our Homes Coalition and Community Living Ontario
Support 2nd Reading of Proposed Legislation - Bill 83 - To Stop Picketing in
Front of People's Homes

TORONTO, Oct. 27 /CNW/ - At a media conference to be held October 28 at 10:00 a.m. at Queen's Park, representatives from the Respect Our Homes Coalition and Community Living Ontario will outline the shocking details of what happens when striking workers picket in front of the homes people who have an intellectual disability and why it must be stopped.

In 2007 nearly 2,000 people were affected when staff from seven service agencies went on strike and picketed in front of the homes where people live.   In 2009, staff at another agency hit the picket lines, including in front of the people's homes. 

It's estimated that the staff from at least another 50 agencies could go on strike in 2011. 

The Respect Our Homes Coalition represents a broad cross-section of advocates, concerned citizens, and people with disabilities who oppose the picketing of group homes and assisted living residences during labour disputes. 

Community Living Ontario is a non-profit provincial organization that advocates for the full inclusion and citizenship of people who have an intellectual disability

What:	Media Conference
When:	10:00 a.m. - Thursday, October 28, 2010
Where:	Main Legislative Building, Media Room, Room 148

Speaking at the media conference:

• Melissa Abrams, Chair, The Council of Community Living Ontario and member of the Respect Our Homes Coalition
• Kory Earle, President, People First of Ontario and member of the Respect Our Homes Coalition
• Kimberley Gavan, Director of Community Development, Community Living Ontario and member of the Respect Our Homes Coalition

Community Living Ontario is a province-wide federation promoting and facilitating the full participation and inclusion of people who have an intellectual disability. More than 12,000 people are members of Community Living Ontario through membership in 117 affiliated local associations. Community Living provides direct support and services to people who have an intellectual disability, helps communities build the capacity to support people, and advocates for social change toward the full inclusion of all people in community.

For further information:

FOR INTERVIEWS OR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 
Rozalyn Werner-Arcé, Director of Marketing and Communications, Community Living Ontario
Office: 416-447-4348 ext. 235 Cell:  416-407-4014