Every year, starting on the last Sunday in May, Canadians celebrate National AccessAbility Week (NAAW). Founded as ‘National Access Awareness Week’ in 1988 and inspired by Rick Hansen’s Man In Motion World Tour, this week is an opportunity to celebrate Canadians with disabilities and raise awareness of the critical need for accessibility and inclusion for all in our communities and workplaces.
Scroll down to discover the many ways to join the celebrations from May 26th to June 1st, 2024.
Participate in our #NAAWChallenge
Do you know a person with a disability who...
Advocates for themselves or others
Points out the barriers they encounter
Calls out non-inclusive language
Shares their story or experiences
Once again, this year for National AccessAbility Week, we're challenging all Canadians to celebrate people with disabilities for their leadership, impact and voice. Make a video or post about how that person is making an impact – it could be a neighbour, friend, celebrity or Instagram creator. Challenge that person to do the same, and make sure you use the #NAAWChallenge hashtag to join the chain of recognition!
Follow the challenge hashtaghere
Come together to learn about the Power of Mind-Friendly Communities
Celebrate #NAAW by joining one of our School Program Webinars
Language and Interactions
Inclusive Sport and Physical Activity
Be a Difference Maker!
We will finish the week by announcing this year’s RHF School ProgramDifference Maker of the Year Award recipients– youth across the country who are improving access and inclusion for people with disabilities.
Date: Friday, May 31st , 2024
Time: 11am PT / 2pm ET
Fly a National AccessAbility Week Flag
Join the Conversation
All week long, we’ll be sharing stories, news and exciting announcements about people, organizations and places who are making a difference for people with disabilities. Follow along on ourFacebook,Twitter,LinkedIn andInstagramchannels to stay in the loop!
Learn more about Universal Design
We've created these free universal design guidelines to help your location become more accessible.
Donate to Build a More Accessible Future
In honour of National AccessAbility Week, make a gift to the Rick Hansen Foundation. It’s time everyone, everywhere is included in society.