Disability Alliance BC (DABC) unequivocally condemns the public comments made by MLA Tara Armstrong on July 13^th, 2026, regarding people receiving Disability Assistance (known as PWD). MLA Armstrong stated that “the government’s welfare law hands out disability payments to drug addicts simply because they use drugs.” This statement is false, misleading, and deeply harmful.

People do not qualify for PWD designation simply because they use substances. Eligibility for PWD is determined through a rigorous and extensive application process that assesses whether an individual has a severe and prolonged disability that significantly restricts their ability to carry out daily living activities.[1] Suggesting otherwise misrepresents the PWD system and fuels harmful myths about people with disabilities.

MLA Armstrong’s comments are dehumanizing towards people living with addiction or substance use and those with co-occurring disabilities. Substance use does not exist in a vacuum; it is often intertwined with mental health, poverty, homelessness, discrimination and systemic barriers in accessing healthcare and other living supports. Many people with disabilities who may also live with addiction experience these realities simultaneously. To reduce their lived experience to a dismissive stereotype is not only inaccurate, it is profoundly offensive.

As the Canadian Drug Policy Coalition states, substance use exists on a spectrum and cannot be understood separately from the social, economic, health, and policy conditions that shape people’s lives.[2] Compassionate, evidence-based approaches recognize the inherent dignity of every person and reject narratives that shame individuals with complex health and social issues.

Through her actions, MLA Armstrong has perpetuated misinformation and stigma towards people with disabilities, which further reinforces an ableist system designed to restrict people with disabilities from accessing employment, housing, healthcare, education, and community participation. Her words embolden others to discriminate against some of the most vulnerable and marginalized people in our province and undermine years of work to build a more accessible and inclusive BC.

Equally concerning is MLA Armstrong’s characterization of disability assistance as ‘welfare.’ PWD exists because many people with disabilities face barriers to employment and incur significant disability-related costs to living that others do not. PWD is an essential income support program, not a moral judgment about an individual’s worth or contribution to society. Referring to PWD as ‘welfare’ perpetuates outdated stereotypes that people with disabilities are dependent, undeserving, or somehow less valuable members of our community.

People who experience substance use deserve dignity, respect, and evidence-based public policy, not sensationalist and harmful rhetoric that pits communities against one another for political gain. People with disabilities are not punch lines.

MLA Armstrong’s comments are particularly shocking given her past involvement with her family’s franchise business, Driving Miss Daisy (which is still in operation but has since been sold). The company specializes in providing accompaniment and transportation services for seniors and people with disabilities.

British Columbians expect more from our MLAs. MLAs have a responsibility to engage in public debate honestly, accurately, and respectfully. They should help reduce discrimination, not amplify it. They should rely on evidence, not misinformation. They should use their office to build community, not deepen divisions.

For these reasons, Disability Alliance BC calls on Tara Armstrong to:

• Publicly retract her misleading statements;
• Issue a sincere apology to people with disabilities and those affected by substance use; and
• Resign from the Legislative Assembly if she is unwilling or unable to uphold the standards of respect, and dignity expected of her role.

[1] Please see the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction’s eligibility for PWD here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/policies-for-government/bcea-policy-and-procedure-manual/pwd-designation-and-application/designation-application

[2] Please see the Canadian Drug Policy Coalition’s statement on addiction treatment: https://drugpolicy.ca/our-work/addiction-treatment-position-statement/

Update: DABC Executive Director Helaine Boyd was interviewed by CTV News about our response to MLA Armstrong’s comments. Watch the video and read the article.

Capital Bike is looking for people with lived experience of disability, accessibility barriers to help shape a series of road safety videos that is being developed for the Greater Victoria region. The advisory group will meet approximately 3 times between July 2026 and early 2027. If you’re interested in learning more, please contact Erica at erica.camfferman@capitalbike.ca.

Join the Disability Alliance BC Board: Make a Difference! Are you passionate about disability advocacy? Do you want to use your lived experiences to drive positive change? Disability Alliance BC (DABC) is looking for one (1) individual to join our Board of Directors in 2026!

About You

• You are passionate about disability rights and advocacy.
• You want to use your lived experiences to drive positive change.
• You are dedicated to fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome and respected.
• You have a desire to engage and work closely with others – both within and outside the organization.
• You demonstrate a strong work ethic and responsiveness in your tasks.
• You embody empathy and compassion in all your interactions.
• We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds; however, our Board particularly encourages individuals from specific sectors to apply.
  • Lawyers and legal professionals
  • Public sector employees (government)
  • Corporate or for-profit sector workers
  • Fundraising and Community Development
  • Financial professionals
• Diverse Voices: We would love to see applications from all over British Columbia, especially those with lived experience from Northern, Interior, and rural areas.

Why Join Us?

Since 1977, DABC has been a powerful voice for people with disabilities in British Columbia. We are a provincial non-profit and registered charity dedicated to supporting people with all disabilities to live with dignity, independence, and as equal participants in the community. We promote disability issues through direct services, community partnerships, advocacy, research, and publications.

What You’ll Do:

As a Board Member, your responsibilities will include:

• Promoting DABC’s mission, vision, and values within your community and networks.
• Providing leadership and guidance to our Executive Director.
• Evaluating the Executive Director’s performance annually and giving constructive feedback. This process helps ensure ongoing improvement and the organization’s success.
• Ensuring that DABC fully complies with all legal, financial, and ethical standards and accountability.
• Reviewing and providing suggestions for our systemic advocacy and policy work based on your lived experience.
• Ensuring that the strategic plan is adhered to, regularly updated, and thoroughly reviewed.

For more information, please go to: Board member summary.

Term and Commitment:

The Board of Directors meets virtually for approximately 90 minutes, six times a year. During these meetings, they discuss key issues, make important decisions, and strategize for the future.

In addition to the regular meetings, Board members have the opportunity to participate in various committees and special initiatives as they arise. They prioritize a manageable commitment to ensure that participation is accessible and value each member’s contributions.

Board Directors typically serve a three-year term, with opportunities for re-election.

This position is voluntary and does not offer financial compensation.

Eligibility:

To join, you must meet the following criteria:

• You are at least 18 years of age.
• Be a person with a disability.
• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident as defined by the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada).
• Be a member in good standing with DABC (membership fee: $15).

How to Apply:

Ready to make an impact? Email our Board & Communications Coordinator, Chloe Krause, at chloe@dabc.ca for a nomination package.

This will include:

• A Nominee Application Form for Candidates Seeking to Apply to the DABC Board of Directors.
• A DABC Nomination Form for Candidates Seeking to Apply to the DABC Board of Directors.
• A detailed overview of the history and role of Board duties and responsibilities.
• A two-page summary of the role of a DABC board member.
• DABC’s Annual Report.

Deadline: Applications are open on a rolling basis and will be considered until 8:29AM on Wednesday August 5th. We look forward to hearing from you!

Please attach a resume along with your completed nomination and nominee forms. If this poses a barrier, please let us know.

Please note that you may not hear from a representative of the committee until after 8:29AM on Wednesday August 5th. If you are successful in moving to the interview phase, you will be contacted to schedule your interview during the week of August 9th. We will update you regardless of the outcome of your application.

Thank you for your patience, and please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.

The final decision about joining our Board will be made by a vote of our membership at our AGM each year in September.

Download a copy of this Call for Nominations here.