Proclamation for National AccessAbility Week 2025

Whereas the Government of Canada marks National AccessAbility Week from May 25^th, 2025 to May 31^st, 2025 in Canada; and

Whereas as a part of National AccessAbility Week, Red Shirt Day of Action for Accessibility and Inclusion, as promoted by Easter Seals Canada, is recognized on May 28^th, 2025; and

Whereas over 8 million Canadians have one or more disabilities, including 2.6 million people in Ontario and 90% of Canadians believe people with disabilities are not fully included in society; and

Whereas National AccessAbility Week aims to improve the understanding and knowledge of Canadians about accessibility and inclusion, reduce stigma and attitudinal barriers towards persons with disabilities, share best practices and lessons learned within the disability community, and demonstrate a supportive voice for Canadians with disabilities; and

Whereas disability accessibility and inclusion does not end with this awareness week, and in order to make Canada a truly accessible and inclusive society, it requires the constant, year-round commitment and efforts of all Canadians to take action to increase accessibility and inclusion; and

Whereas this year Easter Seals is encouraging people to participate in National AccessAbility Week and Red Shirt Day by making a pledge and committing to take action to remove physical, attitudinal and systemic barriers to accessibility and inclusion in their school, workplace, and community; and

Whereas, as requested by the Arnprior Accessibility and Age Friendly Advisory Committee, the Town of Arnprior will be sharing this proclamation with the schools in our community and online and the Arnprior and District Museum’s clock tower will be lit up with the colour red from May 25th, 2025 to May 31st, 2025 to show our support.

Now Therefore Be it Resolved That, I, Lisa McGee, Mayor of Arnprior, do hereby proclaim May 25^th to May 31^st, 2025, as National AccessAbility Week in the Town of Arnprior and encourage all residents to learn more about Accessibility and Inclusion, wear a red shirt on May 28^th, 2025, and help promote awareness, acceptance and inclusivity in our community.

Lisa McGee, Mayor

Town of Arnprior