Access Awareness Week in Nova Scotia

Premier John Hamm has proclaimed May 28 to June 3 as Nova Scotia Access Awareness Week.

"This year's theme, Full Citizenship for All, shows us that people with disabilities should be able to make their own decisions, take risks, and set their own goals," said Peter Christie, Minister Responsible for the Disabled Persons Commission. "Activities for Access Awareness Week, and particularly the Hour Glass Action Awards, provide an excellent opportunity to honour citizens and businesses that have contributed to a barrier-free society."

Mel Hebb, a former chair of the Hour Glass committee and active member of the Partnership for Access Awareness, and Shaun McCormick, former chair of the Disabled Persons Commission, both of whom died prematurely during the past year, will be honoured for their significant contributions to the community at the awards luncheon.

The week is sponsored by Partnership for Access Awareness-Nova Scotia, a community-based organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for all Nova Scotians with disabilities by promoting diversity and inclusion.

Activities that will be held during Nova Scotia Access Awareness Week include:

• A Citizenship Forum in Halifax that will provide an opportunity for persons with disabilities to learn about and discuss a variety of areas of concern including such topics as inclusive transportation, human rights legislation and inclusive schooling.
• A Legislative Breakfast in Pictou County which will provide an opportunity for elected representatives to meet with the disability community
• The awarding of two scholarships to students with disabilities, sponsored by ScotiaBank and the Royal Bank.
• The official launch of REACH NOVA SCOTIA in Halifax, an organization committed to equal access to the justice system by persons with disabilities.
• The Mel Hebb Hourglass Action Awards in Halifax, which recognize organizations, individuals and businesses that have contributed significantly to the full participation of persons with disabilities

This year's Hourglass Action Award winners, to be recognized during the Hourglass Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, May 30, are:

• Atlantic Superstore, New Glasgow Market
• Landsdowne Outdoor Recreational Development Association, Pictou County
• Linda Stiles, Outstanding Individual Award
• Mel Hebb, Lifetime Achievement Award (posthumously)
• Shaun McCormick, Lifetime Achievement Award (posthumously)

kjd May 29, 2000 11:51 a.m..