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In this insightful episode of Footprints & Impacts, we sit down with Dr. Caroline Barakat, an Associate Professor specializing in Environmental and Occupational Health at Ontario Tech University. 

With expertise in air pollution, toxin exposure and public health, Dr. Barakat sheds light on the often-overlooked connections between environmental exposures and Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS).

We explore the long-term health effects of pollution, how chemicals in everyday products contribute to health issues, and the systemic barriers faced by individuals with MCS. Dr. Barakat also discusses the importance of policy change, public awareness, and reducing toxic exposures to create safer environments for all.

This conversation is more important than ever as we approach RESILIENCE 2025: The First Annual International Conference on MCS, taking place virtually on May 1-2, 2025. 

This groundbreaking event will bring together scientists, advocates, policymakers, and individuals with MCS to drive awareness, research and action.

🔗 Learn more & register: https://aseq-ehaq.ca/en/resiliencemcsconference/

Join us for a compelling conversation on the intersection of environmental health, advocacy, and the urgent need for action.

EHAC-ASEC : https://ehac-asec.ca/
ASEQ-EHAQ : https://aseq-ehaq.ca/en/

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With the Participation of :

ECRoB Project - Funded in Part by the Government of Canada's Social Development Partnerships Program, Disability Component.

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In this powerful episode of Footprints & Impacts, we speak with Renu Bakshi, a former journalist and anchor, who now works as a media trainer and crisis manager, about her deeply personal experience with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). 

Renu shares the challenges of living with this often misunderstood and invisible disability, including stigma, lack of support and the struggles she’s faced both personally and professionally.

Despite these challenges, Renu has transformed her experience into advocacy, using her platform to raise awareness about MCS and fight for better understanding, accommodations, and support. From her work in human rights to the crucial role the media plays in elevating awareness, Renu offers valuable insights on how we can all be part of the change.

Tune in for an enlightening discussion on the intersection of environmental health, workplace inclusion, and the urgent need for greater empathy and understanding of MCS.

EHAC-ASEC : https://ehac-asec.ca/
ASEQ-EHAQ : https://aseq-ehaq.ca/en/
Renu Bakshi : https://renubakshi.com/

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With the Participation of :

ECRoB Project - Funded in Part by the Government of Canada's Social Development Partnerships Program, Disability Component.

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Dans cet épisode d’Empreintes et Impacts, nous accueillons Lila Refaie, avocate bilingue au ARCH Centre de Droit des Personnes Handicapées, pour discuter des défis juridiques rencontrés par les personnes atteintes de Sensibilité Chimique Multiple (SCM). Lila partage son expertise en matière de droits des personnes handicapées, y compris les protections juridiques dont bénéficient les personnes atteintes de SCM en vertu de la Loi canadienne et ontarienne sur les droits de la personne.

Nous abordons les accommodements en milieu de travail et l'importance des politiques sans parfum, ainsi que la manière dont la loi peut soutenir les personnes atteintes de SCM pour surmonter les obstacles à l'accessibilité et à l'inclusion.

Écoutez cet épisode pour un approfondissement sur l'intersection entre le droit des personnes handicapées et la santé environnementale, avec des conseils pratiques sur la manière dont les individus peuvent défendre leurs droits. Cet épisode est également disponible en français, grâce à l'engagement de Lila pour l'accessibilité.

EHAC-ASEC : https://ehac-asec.ca/
ASEQ-EHAQ : https://aseq-ehaq.ca/en/
ARCH Disability Law Centre : https://archdisabilitylaw.ca/ 

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With the Participation of :

ECRoB Project - Funded in Part by the Government of Canada's Social Development Partnerships Program, Disability Component.

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Legal Rights and Advocacy for People with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) with Lila Refaie.

In this episode of Footprints & Impacts, we are joined by Lila Refaie, Bilingual Staff Lawyer at the ARCH Disability Law Centre to discuss the legal challenges faced by individuals with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). Lila shares her expertise on disability rights, including the legal protections available to people with MCS under the Canadian and Ontario Human Rights Act. 

We explore workplace accommodations and the importance of scent-free policies, as well as how the law can support those with MCS in overcoming barriers to accessibility and inclusion. Tune in for a deep dive into the intersection of disability law and environmental health, with practical insights on how individuals can advocate for their rights. This episode is also available in French, thanks to Lila's dedication to accessibility.

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With the Participation of :

ECRoB Project - Funded in Part by the Government of Canada's Social Development Partnerships Program, Disability Component.

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In this special episode, we’re diving deep into the connection between human health and our ecosystem, focusing on the effects of environmental toxins and their impact on the body. We’ll also be exploring Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) — a condition that’s often misunderstood but increasingly recognized as a disability, characterized by heightened sensitivity to chemicals and toxins in everyday life.

Joining us in this episode is Dr. John Molot, an expert in environmental health and a leading advocate for MCS awareness. With his extensive background in medicine and environmental research, Dr. Molot will share his insights on the development of MCS, its symptoms, challenges faced by those living with the condition, and ways to better manage and support individuals with MCS.

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With the Participation of :

ECRoB Project - Funded in Part by the Government of Canada's Social Development Partnerships Program, Disability Component.

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In this enlightening first episode, Rohini Peris and Rosa Iacono share their personal journeys with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) and delve into the impactful work of the Environmental Health Associations of Québec and Canada. They discuss the association's history, mission and current initiatives aimed at supporting individuals with MCS. 

Listeners will gain insights into the importance of education, support, collaboration in raising awareness and shaping public policy. Join us as we explore the challenges faced by those with MCS and the hopeful vision for an inclusive and healthier future.

Support the show

With the Participation of :

ECRoB Project - Funded in Part by the Government of Canada's Social Development Partnerships Program, Disability Component.