TORONTO — The Ontario government has launched a new public education campaign to increase awareness about accessibility needs and responsibilities, and help organizations identify and remove barriers for people with disabilities.

"Our government is committed to working together with our partners inside and outside of government to make Ontario more accessible and inclusive by 2025. We want everyone, especially people with disabilities and seniors, to be able to fully participate in everyday life in our communities and our economy," said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. "Our new campaign will help foster understanding and encourage cultural change towards accessibility needs."

The campaign is intended to help people learn more about accessibility, inclusion and hiring people with disabilities. It also explains what people with disabilities can expect under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) along with guidelines and resources to help make it easier for businesses and employers to understand and implement their requirements under the AODA.

"Variety Village has worked with the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility on many initiatives and recognizes Ontario's work towards accessibility and inclusion," said Karen Stintz, President and CEO of Variety Village. "By bringing more attention to accessibility issues and engaging with partners, Ontario is helping to change the way people think about accessibility. Together, we become ambassadors for more inclusive communities."

This campaign is part of the government's ongoing work to create a more inclusive and accessible province through the Advancing Accessibility in Ontario framework. The government is continuing to work with stakeholders, including partner ministries, broader public sector organizations, businesses and non-profit organizations to achieve these goals.