This special week highlights the achievements and ongoing work to make Nova Scotia accessible and inclusive for everyone.

Did you know? 

Did you know that nearly 38 percent of Nova Scotians live with at least one disability, according to the Canadian Survey on Disability (2022).

Nova Scotia was the very first province in Canada to host Access Awareness Week, starting in 1987.

The movement was inspired by Rick Hansen’s legendary Man in Motion World Tour, which helped ignite a national conversation about accessibility and inclusion.

 Nearly four decades later, we continue to celebrate the progress made and the leaders that have motivated us to get where we are today.

Access Awareness Week is a time to reflect on how we can better remove barriers and recognize the people, organizations, and businesses working toward greater inclusion in our communities.

To recognize the accomplishments of persons with disabilities and their allies. By raising awareness about ongoing barriers in transportation, housing, employment, recreation, education, and communication.

We hope to inspire action and conversations about building a more accessible and inclusive Nova Scotia for all.

This year’s theme for 2025 is Our Voices, Our Votes: Disability Rights in Action, focusing on civic engagement, advocacy, and the importance of including persons with disabilities in every aspect of community life.

Some event to attend in Truro and around Nova Scotia are Lemon aid Stand Society will be hosting event on May 31, 2025 at the Fundy Discovery Park in Truro, from 12 -3 pm.

Resources that will be there to find out more about in our area are:

Adaptive equipment,

Amplify Learning,

Rolling Aces, wheel chair tennis

Stitch craft tailoring adaptive clothing.

Opportunities to connect with local disability advocates and learn more about accessibility initiatives in our region

Let’s come together to celebrate the achievements, recognize the work still to be done, and ensure everyone’s voice is heard.

Share your stories, attend an event, and help make Truro—and all of Nova Scotia—a place where everyone belongs.

Inspired by the ongoing work of disability advocates, Nova Scotia leads the way in access awareness. Let’s keep the momentum going!