On May 29th, Canada will kick-off National AccessAbility Week (NAAW). This week is a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of persons with disabilities, to lift up individuals and organizations who are removing barriers, and to recommit the work ahead to make Canada a truly disability inclusive country.
In advance of the nationwide celebrations for NAAW, the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough, joined the disability community and opened the Government of Canada’s first Canadian Congress on Disability Inclusion (CCDI). The CCDI is taking place May 26 and 27, 2022, with the theme of “Innovating Together: Celebrating and Driving Disability Inclusion in Canada.”
In her remarks, the Minister spoke about the realities and experiences of persons with disabilities today, the advancement of disability rights, and the work ahead to realize disability inclusion in Canada. The Minister gave updates on the Government of Canada’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan and the Canada Disability Benefit. Specifically, the Minister noted that the Action Plan will be released during NAAW and that the Government will re-table Canada Disability Benefit legislation before the end of June.
The CCDI is an accessible, virtual and interactive two-day event, open to all. It offers a variety of activities, including: networking sessions, an innovation showcase, and a career fair. Featuring some of Canada’s most diverse and inclusive employers on the lookout for talent, the CCDI career fair provides a unique opportunity for persons with disabilities in search of meaningful work opportunities. Congress participants and attendees also have access to panel discussions and presentations from leading motivational speakers who are bringing fresh perspectives on accessibility in the 21st century.
As National AccessAbility Week draws near, this week serves as a reminder for all Canadians to acknowledge the remarkable efforts made by individuals and communities to advance accessibility and disability inclusion in Canada. All Canadians are encouraged to visit the following link for more information, where they will also be able register in advance to watch this important and exciting event: https://pheedloop.com/CCA2022/site/home/.
