Speaking Out Conference 2026 – A Weekend of Voices, Connections, & Inspiration!
What an incredible weekend in beautiful Port Elgin!
Our CLASS Self-Advocates had the opportunity to join self-advocates from across Ontario for the 2026 Speaking Out Conference, a weekend dedicated to learning, sharing experiences, building friendships, and celebrating the power of self-advocacy!
Throughout the weekend, inspiring speakers shared their personal journeys, experiences overcoming barriers, and the importance of speaking up, knowing your rights, and creating communities where everyone is heard, respected, and valued.
One particularly special moment for CLASS was seeing Avery, President of Self-Advocates. Avery, took the stage to share her personal experiences advocating for herself and her service dog, Luma🐶. We couldn’t be prouder of her courage, confidence, and willingness to share her story with others!
Of course, the weekend wasn’t just about presentations! There were plenty of smiles, laughter, opportunities to reconnect with familiar faces, and new friendships made along the way!
Events like Speaking Out remind us that self-advocacy is about more than finding your voice. It’s about having your voice heard, making your own choices, standing up for your rights, and empowering others to do the same.
A huge THANK YOU to the Speaking Out Conference Committee, the presenters, organizers, and everyone who helped make this weekend such a meaningful experience!
🎥 Take a look back at some of the wonderful memories from Speaking Out 2026!
Every voice matters. Every story matters. Together, we make a difference!
#SpeakingOut2026 #CLASSSelfAdvocates #SelfAdvocacy #InclusionMatters #EveryVoiceMatters #CommunityLiving
