From Awareness to Action: Caledon’s Accessibility Advocates keep momentum going

By Riley Murphy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

National Accessibility Week has just wrapped up, but that does not mean that the messaging about accessibility does as well.

Tamara Limebeer, Chair of Caledon's Accessibility Advisory Committee, spoke about what this week looked like not only for the committee, but for everyone.

“National AccessAbility Week is an annual celebration that brings focus on promoting accessibility and removing barriers. It's a time to recognize and celebrate efforts to make a more inclusive Canada,” said Limebeer.

The Accessibility Advisory Committee is responsible for raising community awareness surrounding persons with disabilities and provides advice and recommendations to Council on ensuring a barrier free community. 

The Committee focuses on the review of site plans, playgrounds and community parks, pursuant to the standards as outlined in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).

The Town of Caledon provided the Accessibility Advisory Committee with red shirts, and the committee wore these shirts last Wednesday to celebrate the achievements of people with disabilities.

Limebeer shared that it is seen as a pledge to create a fully inclusive and accessible society. 

Red Shirt Day is an initiative of Easter Seals Canada and a key event within National Accessibility Week. 

The committee shared through social media that accessibility isn't just about compliance, it is about fostering a society where everyone belongs and feels valued.

“Accessibility is about creating a society where everyone feels included and able to participate and feel valued. It is so much more than just a legal requirement. It is an opportunity to foster inclusion where everyone can feel that they belong. Accessibility empowers individuals to participate fully in society moving forward. We need to help businesses that are not accessible with the tools to make their business more inclusive,” said Limebeer. “Breaking down barriers is good business.”

Limebeer said one message they would like to share as we come out of National Accessibility Awareness week: “It is discouraging and disheartening to many disabled people that there are still so many barriers to overcome.”

To read more about the Accessibility Advisory Committee in Caledon readers can follow this link www.caledon.ca/en/government/accessibility-advisory-committee.aspx.