More work on accessibility needed, say people with disabilities as awareness week marked

Anna Quon, the Halifax Regional Municipality’s poet laureate, recently shared her experience facing barriers to accessibility while trying to vote in the federal election. As someone who is mobility impaired, she found the process challenging and inaccessible for both herself and her father, who also has mobility issues.

During an interview, Quon described the difficulties they encountered at the advance poll, where there were limited chairs to sit on and long lines to navigate with their walking sticks. The experience was not only physically exhausting but also painful, highlighting the lack of accessibility in the voting process for individuals with disabilities.

Quon pointed out that a smaller percentage of people with severe disabilities participate in elections due to such barriers. This issue underscores the importance of creating a more inclusive and accessible voting system to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to exercise their democratic rights.

The incident inspired Quon to write a poem that she shared at an event held at Halifax City Hall to kick off Access Awareness Week. This annual event, now in its 39th year, aims to raise awareness about the importance of removing barriers for people with disabilities.

The theme for this year’s Access Awareness Week focuses on the significance of voting and community engagement. With multiple elections taking place in Nova Scotia over the past year, the event organizers wanted to emphasize the need for action and support for individuals with disabilities beyond just casting a ballot.

The event at Halifax City Hall included a flag-raising ceremony and the presentation of the Mel Hebb Hourglass Action Awards, which recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to improving accessibility and the lives of people with disabilities.

Sherry Costa-Lorenz, the executive director of the Nova Scotia League for Equal Opportunities and a member of the disability community, emphasized that accessibility goes beyond physical accommodations. She highlighted the importance of access to support, services, and systems that enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

Quon advocated for a guaranteed basic income for people with disabilities, citing income as a major barrier for many individuals in the community. She noted the lower employment rates among people with disabilities, particularly those with mental health concerns.

Costa-Lorenz stressed the need for progress in addressing less visible barriers faced by individuals with chronic illnesses and hidden disabilities, such as mental health conditions, autism, and brain injuries. She emphasized the ongoing work needed to achieve equitable access for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.

This year’s Access Awareness Week, taking place from May 25-31, features a series of virtual and in-person events across the province. These activities aim to promote inclusivity, raise awareness about accessibility issues, and foster a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals with disabilities.