News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The Premier's Council on Disabilities is organizing events provincewide to mark Disability Awareness Week, May 28 to June 3.

The theme this year is Accessibility = Inclusion.

The main goal of the week is to raise public awareness of the barriers that prevent people with any type of disability from full and equal participation in their community, and to support the removal of these barriers.

In addition to activities co-ordinated by the council, local groups and communities around the province will also organize projects to create positive changes in the lives of people with disabilities.

“When we include people with disabilities, we create a stronger New Brunswick,” said council chair Patrick Losier. “We have made significant progress in promoting inclusion for people with disabilities, but we still have a long way to go.”

Schools, organizations and businesses are encouraged to take part in the annual Walk and Roll Challenge. Each year, thousands of New Brunswickers walk and roll for 15 minutes to show support for people with disabilities. The provincial event in Fredericton begins at noon on Saturday, June 3, on the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge.

“Everyone is invited to organize or participate in an activity in their community to mark Disability Awareness Week,” said Losier. “This week is an opportunity to celebrate New Brunswickers with disabilities while raising awareness of the need to work collaboratively towards a province that is fully accessible and inclusive for all.”

More information concerning events during Disability Awareness Week and the Premier's Council on Disabilities is available online.