Ottawa, Ontario – Canadian Human Rights Commission
To mark the launch of National AccessAbility Week, Christopher T. Sutton, Accessibility Commissioner, and Charlotte-Anne Malischewski, Interim Chief Commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission, issue the following statement:
Today, as we mark National AccessAbility Week, we join countless voices across Canada in celebrating the contributions that people with disabilities have made in building a stronger, more resilient Canada.
We recommit ourselves, both individually and collectively, to our work in promoting and protecting the human rights of people with disabilities, monitoring how Canada implements the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, advancing the Accessible Canada Act, and pushing toward a barrier-free Canada.
This work is vital to the moment we are in right now. As Canada charts the course ahead, we must ensure that human rights are at the centre —including the fundamental human right to accessibility. Canada is stronger when every person is included and has a chance to fully participate in our society and economy, without barriers.
We need accessibility to be there across our workplaces, our government institutions, and in essential services for Canadians. From new laws that get written, to new houses that get built, to the way Canada will address the cost-of-living crisis and embrace digital innovation — all of these important goals must incorporate accessibility from the outset.
True accessibility is transformative. It touches the everyday lives of people with disabilities and their ability to contribute to and thrive in society. Accessibility is about more than just removing barriers — it is about creating a world with equal opportunities, dignity, and meaningful connection. It’s about shifting our attitude and improving our awareness.
Promoting accessibility is a shared responsibility. It demands collective action from citizens, government, business, human rights advocates, allies and community leaders. Importantly, the most significant progress happens when people with disabilities are not only consulted but are truly engaged. Their input must inform and guide Canada’s progress.
It is our hope that Canada’s new government and all members of Parliament will prioritize accessibility and include people with disabilities in the development of laws, policies, programs and services so that their experiences and intersecting identities are taken into account. Let accessibility be a keystone in rebuilding a more resilient and stronger Canada for all.
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Helpful links
- Welcoming Christopher T. Sutton as Accessibility Commissioner
- Accessible Canada Act responsibilities
- Canadian Human Rights Commission – Our people
Media contacts
Media Relations
613-943-9118
communications@chrc-ccdp.gc.ca
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