There’s another demonstration planned outside the legislature in Edmonton on Thursday. Disabled Albertans, service providers and supporters will rally to oppose the government’s proposed Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP). Starting July 2026, the United Conservative Party government will shift thousands of people with disabilities from the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program. Advocates say ADAP will reduce monthly benefits to $1,740, $200 less than what AISH currently provides. “Poverty is not a policy tool,” said Zachary Weeks, with the People’s Alliance for Disabled Albertans (PADA). “If government wants disabled Albertans to thrive, stop cutting our incomes, stop clawing back federal supports, and finally pass an Accessibility Act that actually fixes barriers—with deadlines, enforcement, and accountability.” The province has argued ADAP is intended to expand opportunities, while maintaining essential supports. It also stressed it will offer greater flexibility than AISH and help Albertans live with independence. The rally begins at noon and will include a die-in demonstration.
