AccessAbility Week starts this Sunday

CONNOR LUCZKA, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Every year, starting on the last Sunday of May, is national AccessAbility Week, a week to celebrate and promote the contributions of people with disabilities, the work of accomplices in removing barriers and the ongoing efforts to become a barrier-free nation where all members of society can participate equally.

Speaking to Stratford city council on May 26, Roger Koert, chair of the City of Stratford’s accessibility advisory committee (AAC), took the time to single out one attendee for her stalwart support.

“I'd like to bring attention to another thoughtful group of citizens,” Koert said. “The first person in this group is Bonnie Henderson. Bonnie, you have been an accessibility accomplice for decades. The first time I see your name in the AAC minutes is from 2006. For 20 years, you have spoken up for the disabled community, questioned decision making and continuously kept accessibility in the conversation.”

As Koert alluded to, Coun. Henderson has often challenged planners when presenting new developments at council on its accessibility – whether its steps leading up to the front doors of townhomes or accessible parking spaces and units in apartment complexes. She has often exasperated that there should be more stipulations addressing accessibility concerns for new builds, pointing out that it isn’t just home buyers that are affected.

As Henderson has said in the past, everyone knows someone with accessibility needs.

As the gallery applauded Henderson’s work, Koert thanked Mayor Martin Ritsma, city council, city staff and committee members for their collective action to prioritize accessibility in Stratford.

“Accessibility is not just the work of one committee, it is embedded in council's long-term planning, implemented daily by city staff, shaped by advisory committees and volunteers, and strengthened by public participation. Together we are creating the community we want to live in today, and what we are fiercely proud of to leave for those who come after us.”

On June 1, nominations open for the city’s annual accessibility award, which brings attention to one business organization or individual in Stratford that has worked hard to make their space or service more accessible.

June 3 is Red Shirt Day. By wearing red on Red Shirt Day, we show a visible display of solidarity and our support for people with disabilities, and the shared commitment to building a community where everyone can participate and thrive.

On June 4, during the lunch hour in Market Square, members of the AAC will be present to interact with the community, answer questions, hear concerns and give out swag.

On behalf of the AAC, Koert encouraged the community to come out and celebrate national AccessAbility Week.