History

The Inter-University Disabilities Issues Association (IDIA) was established in the late 1980s as a collaborative network of university professionals dedicated to improving services and accessibility for students with disabilities across Ontario.

Origins and Early Mandate

Originally known as the Inter-University Association on Special Needs (IUASN), the group was formally established in 1988. It was founded by front-line coordinators of campus disability services who recognized the need for a unified forum to share ideas and address common challenges.

The founding goals established in 1988 continue to guide IDIA’s focus today:

  • Setting Standards: Establishing guidelines for professional service delivery.
  • Information Sharing: Facilitating the exchange of data, research, and best practices, including the development of an early newsletter.
  • Professional Development: Creating opportunities for staff training and growth.
  • Liaison Building: Cultivating relationships with government agencies, colleges, and recognized professional bodies.
  • Advocacy: Actively lobbying for improved funding and systemic accessibility in higher education.

Key Activities

Throughout its history, IDIA has played a central and influential role in shaping postsecondary disability services in Ontario.

  • Advocacy and Policy Influence: IDIA has consistently engaged with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Colleges and Universities, the Office for Disabled Persons, and other partners, resulting in significant policy changes and an increase in funding envelopes for accessibility across universities.
  • Professional Growth: The association promotes competency through hosting workshops, conferences, and technical fairs, which serve to train staff and showcase advancements in assistive technology.
  • Collaboration: IDIA actively partners with essential bodies, including the College Committee on Special Needs (CCSN), the Council of Ontario Universities (COU), and participates in national initiatives to ensure a coordinated approach to accessibility.
  • Communication and Awareness: The organization has worked to elevate awareness of disability issues through the launch of newsletters and roadshow presentations delivered to secondary schools and community groups.

Legacy

Through these persistent efforts, IDIA has secured systemic improvements, including advocacy for changes in areas such as OSAP funding, interpreter services, and learning disability supports. Today, IDIA continues to build on this strong foundation, uniting campus leaders in a shared mission: to enhance equity, accessibility, and inclusion for students with disabilities in higher education.