Biography:
Sarah Jama is a Canadian politician and disability rights activist who has made significant contributions to advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. Born with cerebral palsy, Jama has shown resilience and determination in the face of adversity, becoming an influential figure in the fight for social justice.
After graduating from McMaster University with a social science degree, Jama settled in Hamilton, Ontario. Her personal experiences as a person with a disability drove her to become actively involved in advocacy work. Recognizing the need for a platform that represents and supports the rights of disabled individuals, Jama co-founded the Disability Justice Network Ontario in September 2018.
Jama’s dedication to disability rights led her to appear before the Senate of Canada’s legal and constitutional affairs committee in February 2021. She passionately argued against the proposed Bill C-7, highlighting how it could potentially increase access to euthanasia for individuals with mental health disabilities rather than providing adequate mental health support.
In addition to her work on disability rights, Jama has been a prominent advocate for affordable housing access. In early 2021, she co-founded the Hamilton Encampment Support Network, focusing on providing support and resources for individuals facing homelessness. Jama’s commitment to creating positive change in her community gained media attention when she was arrested during a protest against homeless encampment evictions in Hamilton. The charges against her were later withdrawn after she entered into a peace bond.
Jama’s passion for advocating for marginalized communities extends beyond her activism. In July 2022, she announced her intentions to seek the NDP nomination in the Hamilton Centre by-election. Following her nomination, Jama faced controversy due to her statements describing Israel as an apartheid state, leading to calls for her removal as a candidate. She later apologized for her remarks.
Despite the controversy, Jama remained steadfast in her mission to bring about social change. On March 16, 2023, she accomplished a significant milestone in her career by being elected as the Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Hamilton Centre. Her landslide victory, with over 54% of the vote, demonstrated the trust and support she had garnered from her constituents.
Sarah Jama’s contributions as a politician and disability rights activist have had a profound impact on society. Through her advocacy work, she has brought attention to the rights of marginalized communities and challenged existing systems of oppression. Her determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment to social justice continue to inspire others, making her a trailblazer in women’s history.