CPABC welcomes new board member, Peter Brown!

Peter was born with cerebral palsy. Named “Peter Graham” he was immediately put up for adoption. He spent the first few months of his life in the foster care system. Subsequently the Brown family took him in and ultimately adopted him. Thus, Peter Graham Brown.

The Browns raised Peter and their five children in Richmond and North Vancouver. As occurred in the 1960’s, Peter’s had delayed access to the public-school system due to his disability and limited support. Despite this, Peter became a dedicated student and an active participant in his community. After receiving his Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Simon Fraser University, Peter completed his law degree at the University of British Columbia.

Peter practiced law for over 30 years, spending most of his career in Vancouver at the Public Guardian and Trustee, Child and Youth Services. There, Peter worked on behalf of children in care, returning to his roots and allowing his destiny to come full circle.

Now retired, Peter Brown maintains a position on the City of Vancouver’s Persons with Disabilities Access Committee. He is a member of the City of Vancouver Accessible Strategy Task Force. Over the years, Peter has played an active role in the Cerebral Palsy Association of BC. He is enthusiastic to join the Board and be able to continue his advocacy for people with disabilities. As someone who has successfully overcome vulnerabilities and marginalization in the face of those saying he could not, Peter hopes to inspire those who also face these barriers. Peter is a true example that anything’s possible with hard work, dedication and a good sense of humour.

Peter is married to his wife of 27 years, Michele, an elementary school teacher. He is father to Ashley, who is following her father’s path into the legal profession.