This week — May 25 to 31 — is National AccessAbility Week, an opportunity to recognize the contributions of Canadians with disabilities, including those with intersectional identities, to promote inclusion, and to acknowledge achievements made so far to create a more accessible Canada.

As part of this work here at McMaster, the recently published Accessibility and Disability Inclusion Update includes over 30 submissions that highlight the meaningful efforts of students, staff, and faculty during the 2023-2024 academic year. Developed by the Equity and Inclusion Office, with support from the McMaster Accessibility Advisory Council and the MacPherson Institute, submissions speak to progress in inclusive teaching and learning, accessible digital environments, and community engagement that strengthen connection and belonging.  

“It is important that as a university we continue to recognize the rights of persons with disabilities to fully participate as members within daily university life and operations, where they can experience independence, autonomy, dignity, equality of opportunities, and learn and work without discrimination,” says Barrington Walker, vice-provost, Equity and Inclusion, and chair of the McMaster Accessibility Advisory Council.  

“Accessibility and inclusion remain a priority at McMaster, and are a shared responsibility across campus, requiring a collective effort to make all spaces barrier free and welcoming to persons with disabilities.”  

The University has also updated the McMaster University Accessibility Policy. The revised policy offers a roadmap for operationalizing legislative compliance under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) within the University. Register here for one of the Accessibility Policy Information Sessions. 

Throughout AccessAbility week, there are many opportunities to learn more about the renewed policy and attend related events and workshops. Refer to the Accessibility Hub for a full list of events and the Equity and Inclusion Office website for a statement on National AccessAbility Week. 

For any inquiries or comments related to accessibility and disability inclusion at McMaster, please email the Accessibility Program within the Equity and Inclusion Office at access@mcmaster.ca.