Over 1 in 4 Canadians aged 15 years and older have one or more disabilities that limit them in their daily activities. Since achieving the significant milestone of passing the Accessible Canada Act, the Government of Canada has been fully engaged in creating a barrier-free country and ensuring the participation of all Canadians in society, including persons with disabilities.
On May 23, 2024, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, Kamal Khera, will open the third annual Canadian Congress on Disability Inclusion. This year, the theme is “Forward Together: Accessibility and Inclusion for All”, highlighting the need for collective efforts from all sectors and levels of society to realize a barrier-free Canada by 2040. The Congress will also kickstart nationwide celebrations for National AccessAbility Week 2024, under the same theme.
The Congress is accessible, virtual, free and open to all. In the true spirit of Nothing Without Us, it provides an opportunity for persons with disabilities, disability organizations, public and private organizations, academics, innovators, and thought leaders to share their insights and best practices to help shape accessible and inclusive communities and workplaces. Panel discussions will focus on the progress of the Accessible Canada Act, inclusively built environments and accessible employment, while Prasanna Ranganathan, founding board member of the Disability Screen Office, will deliver a keynote address. Celebrations of Canadian athletes and artists with disabilities will also be featured throughout the day.
