Steven Fletcher (politician)

Early Life and Education

Steven Fletcher was born on June 17, 1972, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He moved to Canada at a young age and grew up in Manitoba. Fletcher attended the University of Manitoba, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering. He later completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the same institution.

Political Career

Entry into Politics

Steven Fletcher entered politics as a member of the Conservative Party of Canada. He was first elected to the House of Commons of Canada in the 2004 federal election, representing the riding of Charleswood St. James Assiniboia.

Parliamentary Roles

Fletcher served in various roles during his time in Parliament. He was appointed as the Minister of State for Democratic Reform in 2008 and later as the Minister of State for Transport in 2011. During his tenure, he was involved in several key legislative initiatives and policy discussions.

Advocacy and Legislation

Fletcher is known for his advocacy on issues related to disability rights. As a quadriplegic, he has been a vocal proponent of accessibility and inclusion. He introduced private member's bills related to assisted suicide and end-of-life care, sparking national debates on these topics.

Personal Life

Steven Fletcher's life changed dramatically in 1996 when he was involved in a car accident that left him a quadriplegic. Despite this life-altering event, he pursued a career in politics and became the first quadriplegic to serve in the Canadian Cabinet. Fletcher has been an advocate for people with disabilities and has shared his experiences to raise awareness about accessibility issues.

Later Career and Activities

After leaving federal politics, Fletcher continued to be active in public life. He ran as an independent candidate in subsequent elections and remained engaged in discussions on public policy and disability rights. Fletcher has also been involved in various speaking engagements and advocacy work.

Legacy and Impact

Steven Fletcher's career has had a significant impact on Canadian politics, particularly in the areas of disability rights and accessibility. His efforts have contributed to greater awareness and legislative action on these issues. Fletcher's story is often cited as an example of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.