The County of Haliburton has proclaimed May 31 to June 6 as National AccessAbility Week.
It follows council’s unanimous approval of the motion at the May 27 meeting.
The motion, read by Scott Ovell, director of economic development and tourism and Deputy CAO, states the week is an opportunity to promote inclusion and accessibility in communities and workplaces across Canada, and to recognize the contributions of persons with disabilities.
“Throughout Ontario, approximately 2.6 million people – or one in four citizens – have a disability. We know that in Haliburton County, as our population ages, the number of people with disabilities in our society will increase,” said Ovell.
Ovell said the week serves as a reminder of the importance of breaking down barriers and creating a society where everyone can participate fully and equally, regardless of ability.
According to the motion, the week aims to help the county’s Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee build a more accessible and inclusive community by identifying, removing, and preventing barriers for people with disabilities, as well as for those who may experience disability in the future.
The committee assists and provides guidance in working towards a barrier-free community. They help to develop guidelines that will meet the needs of all our residents to make our communities accessible for all.
Additionally, the county has approved June 3 as “Red Shirt Day” to show visible support and solidarity and to encourage residents to reflect on both visible and invisible barriers to inclusion.
It also aims to celebrate the contributions and achievements of people with disabilities and to encourage a commitment to building a community where everyone can thrive.
