Access Awareness Week June 1-7
Accessibility for All: The Business of Inclusion will be the theme of this year's Access Awareness Week in Nova Scotia, Sunday, June 1 to Saturday, June 7.
The theme will promote the idea that it is everyone's business to ensure persons with disabilities are included in communities.
"Access Awareness Week encourages all Nova Scotians to pay particular attention to the challenges that persons with disabilities face every day," said Judy Streatch, Minister of Community Services.
"Regardless of your abilities, we all have the right to participate fully in our communities. By working together, we can overcome the barriers to inclusion and provide the same options and choices to all Nova Scotians, making our communities better for everyone."
On Monday, June 2, a proclamation will be read and signed at the Business of Inclusion breakfast at the Marriott Harbourfront Hotel, Nova Scotia D Room, 1919 Upper Water St., Halifax.
Also at the breakfast, the The Mel Hebb Hourglass Action Awards will be given to Nova Scotians in recognition of their contributions to the lives of persons with disabilities.
Anne MacRae, executive director of the Disabled Persons Commission, said this year's theme will be recognized at various events across the province.
"The Transportation Summit in Wolfville will highlight the importance of having inclusive and accessible transportation, while a respite workshop in Halifax for parents of children and adults with chronically high needs will focus on the benefits of providing respite care to families so they can participate and be engaged in their communities," said Ms. MacRae.
The week will end with a scholarship award luncheon where eight students with disabilities will receive scholarships.
Education Minister Karen Casey will also speak to the audience about how everyone benefits when persons with disabilities are included in post-secondary education.
Access Awareness Week is organized by the Partnership for Access Awareness Nova Scotia, with help from the Disabled Persons Commission.
A list of events and information is on the Partnership for Access Awareness Nova Scotia website at www.paans.ca .