Dec. 3 is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, celebrating the accomplishments and progress that persons with disabilities, as well as accessibility and disability communities, have made in advocating for accessibility and equity.  

This year’s theme is United in Action to Rescue and Achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for, with and by Persons with Disabilities. 

At McMaster, the Annual Accessibility and Disability-Inclusion Update showcases many outstanding examples of disability and accessibility community-driven work, scholarship, and progress towards change. Despite the many advancements, barriers also remain that profoundly affect the inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities, and in turn, a collective ability meet the global goals.  

To commemorate and celebrate the day, campus and community partners are organizing a three-week schedule of events and training, starting in November, all the way through Dec. 8. These events will contribute to creating disability-inclusive spaces and dialogues, while reflecting on and upholding the university’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and accessible campus through implementing the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). 

Events will cover topics that include digital accessibility; accessibility in teaching and learning design and delivery; celebrating disability identity and pride; financial wellness; and navigating accessibility services in a post-pandemic world.  

There will also be opportunities to connect with service providers who will share programming details and resources available to support accessibility at McMaster.  

Additionally, an Employee Accessibility Network meeting on Dec. 4 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. is open to McMaster staff and faculty who identify as having a disability, chronic health conditions and/or disability-related accommodation. 

To learn more and to register, please visit the Accessibility Hub’s News and Events Page.  

Campus partners co-organizing these events include the Equity and Inclusion Office’s Accessibility Program, the MacPherson Institute, MSU Maccess, the Employee Accessibility Network, Student Accessibility Services, Library Accessibility Services, Student Success Centre, Student Wellness Centre, School of Graduate Studies and Human Resources.