National AccessAbility Week 2026
National AccessAbility Week takes place May 31 - June 6, 2026 and is a time to recognize and celebrate the leadership, contributions, and achievements of persons with disabilities across Canada, while also raising awareness about the importance of accessibility and inclusion in all aspects of society.
Originally established in 1988 as National Access Awareness Week, the observance was inspired by Canadian athlete and accessibility advocate Rick Hansen and his Man In Motion World Tour, which helped bring national attention to the barriers experienced by persons with disabilities. In 2017, the week was officially renamed National AccessAbility Week following the passage of the Accessible Canada Act, reinforcing Canada’s ongoing commitment to identifying, removing, and preventing barriers to accessibility.
According to Statistics Canada, more than 8 million Canadians aged 15 and older — approximately 27% of the population — identify as having at least one disability. Disabilities may be visible or invisible, temporary or permanent, and can impact individuals in many different ways. National AccessAbility Week helps promote greater understanding of accessibility, equity, and inclusion, while recognizing the importance of creating environments where everyone can participate fully and independently.
The week also highlights the ongoing work being done across Canada to improve accessibility in areas such as education, employment, transportation, technology, communication, and community participation. Through awareness, advocacy, and inclusive practices, National AccessAbility Week encourages meaningful conversations about reducing barriers and building more accessible communities for everyone.
Read More:
• Government of Canada – National AccessAbility Week
• Rick Hansen Foundation
• Statistics Canada – Canadian Survey on Disability