Built Environment

Learn about our campaign to get the Ontario Government to enact a Strong and effective Built Environment Accessibility Standard under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

The Ford Government Defeated a Proposed Resolution in the Legislature that Called for a Plan to Implement David Onley’s Report on Strengthening the Implementation of Ontario’s Disabilities Act – The Government Invoked False and Hurtful Stereotypes About the Disabilities Act, Unfairly Disparaging Its Implementation and Enforcement as “Red Tape”

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Society for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance The Ford Government Defeated a Proposed Resolution in the Legislature that Called for a Plan to Implement David Onley’s Report on Strengthening the Implementation of Ontario’s Disabilities Act – The Government Invoked False … Continue reading The Ford Government Defeated a Proposed Resolution in the Legislature that Called for a Plan to Implement David Onley’s Report on Strengthening the Implementation of Ontario’s Disabilities Act – The Government Invoked False and Hurtful Stereotypes About the Disabilities Act, Unfairly Disparaging Its Implementation and Enforcement as “Red Tape”

During National Access Abilities Week, Ontario NDP Accessibility Critic Joel Harden Presented a Proposed Resolution for Debate in the Legislature that Called On the Ford Government to Create a Plan to Implement the Report of David Onley’s Independent Review of the Implementation and Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act – There are Many Good Reasons Why the Ford Government Should Support this Proposed Resolution

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Society for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance During National Access Abilities Week, Ontario NDP Accessibility Critic Joel Harden Presented a Proposed Resolution for Debate in the Legislature that Called On the Ford Government to Create a Plan to Implement the … Continue reading During National Access Abilities Week, Ontario NDP Accessibility Critic Joel Harden Presented a Proposed Resolution for Debate in the Legislature that Called On the Ford Government to Create a Plan to Implement the Report of David Onley’s Independent Review of the Implementation and Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act – There are Many Good Reasons Why the Ford Government Should Support this Proposed Resolution

A Toronto Star News Report and New Editorial Together Show Why the Ford Government Must Now Announce a Comprehensive Plan to Substantially Improve the Implementation and Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Society for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance A Toronto Star News Report and New Editorial Together Show Why the Ford Government Must Now Announce a Comprehensive Plan to Substantially Improve the Implementation and Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with … Continue reading A Toronto Star News Report and New Editorial Together Show Why the Ford Government Must Now Announce a Comprehensive Plan to Substantially Improve the Implementation and Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

Despite No Announced Plans to Implement the David Onley AODA Independent Review Report, the Ford Government Gives 1.3 Million Dollars to Help Finance a Private Accessibility Certification Program — A Use of Public Money We Don’t Support

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Society for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance Despite No Announced Plans to Implement the David Onley AODA Independent Review Report, the Ford Government Gives 1.3 Million Dollars to Help Finance a Private Accessibility Certification Program — A Use of Public … Continue reading Despite No Announced Plans to Implement the David Onley AODA Independent Review Report, the Ford Government Gives 1.3 Million Dollars to Help Finance a Private Accessibility Certification Program — A Use of Public Money We Don’t Support

102 Days after the Ford Government Received the Report of David Onley’s Independent Review of the AODA, the Government Has Still Not Announced a Detailed Plan to Implement It

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Society for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance 102 Days after the Ford Government Received the Report of David Onley’s Independent Review of the AODA, the Government Has Still Not Announced a Detailed Plan to Implement It May 13, 2019           … Continue reading 102 Days after the Ford Government Received the Report of David Onley’s Independent Review of the AODA, the Government Has Still Not Announced a Detailed Plan to Implement It

At the Senate, Federal Disability Minister Carla Qualtrough Answers Senators’ Questions on the Weak Bill C-81 (Proposed Accessible Canada Act) – Read the AODA Alliance’s Commentary on the Minister’s Key Answers

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Society for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance At the Senate, Federal Disability Minister Carla Qualtrough Answers Senators’ Questions on the Weak Bill C-81 (Proposed Accessible Canada Act) – Read the AODA Alliance’s Commentary on the Minister’s Key Answers April 23, … Continue reading At the Senate, Federal Disability Minister Carla Qualtrough Answers Senators’ Questions on the Weak Bill C-81 (Proposed Accessible Canada Act) – Read the AODA Alliance’s Commentary on the Minister’s Key Answers

Canada Transportation Agency Proposes New Regulations that Threatens to Reduce the Duty to Accommodate Passengers with Disabilities in Air Travel and Other Transportation that the Federal Government Can Regulate, According to a New Brief by the AODA Alliance

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Society for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org  aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance Canada Transportation Agency Proposes New Regulations that Threaten to Reduce the Duty to Accommodate Passengers with Disabilities in Air Travel and Other Transportation that the Federal Government Can Regulate, According to a New … Continue reading Canada Transportation Agency Proposes New Regulations that Threatens to Reduce the Duty to Accommodate Passengers with Disabilities in Air Travel and Other Transportation that the Federal Government Can Regulate, According to a New Brief by the AODA Alliance

Come to the April 10, 2019 Queen’s Park Accessibility Town Hall – and – Powerful Toronto Star Editorial Calls on Ford Government to Swiftly Implement the Onley Report

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Society for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org  aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance Come to the April 10, 2019 Queen’s Park Accessibility Town Hall – and – Powerful Toronto Star Editorial Calls on Ford Government to Swiftly Implement the Onley Report March 13, 2019           SUMMARY … Continue reading Come to the April 10, 2019 Queen’s Park Accessibility Town Hall – and – Powerful Toronto Star Editorial Calls on Ford Government to Swiftly Implement the Onley Report

AODA Alliance Writes Ontario’s Accessibility Minister to Urge Swift Action to Implement the Onley Report – and Media Coverage of the Onley Report and of Ongoing Public Transit Barriers

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Society for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org  aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance AODA Alliance Writes Ontario’s Accessibility Minister to Urge Swift Action to Implement the Onley Report – and Media Coverage of the Onley Report and of Ongoing Public Transit Barriers March 11, 2019           … Continue reading AODA Alliance Writes Ontario’s Accessibility Minister to Urge Swift Action to Implement the Onley Report – and Media Coverage of the Onley Report and of Ongoing Public Transit Barriers

Will Ontario’s New Government Ensure that New Courthouses, Built Using Public Money, Are Barrier-Free for People with Disabilities? — The Previous Government’s Plans for the New Toronto Courthouse Still Have Significant Accessibility Barriers

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Society for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org  aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance Will Ontario’s New Government Ensure that New Courthouses, Built Using Public Money, Are Barrier-Free for People with Disabilities? — The Previous Government’s Plans for the New Toronto Courthouse Still Have Significant Accessibility Barriers … Continue reading Will Ontario’s New Government Ensure that New Courthouses, Built Using Public Money, Are Barrier-Free for People with Disabilities? — The Previous Government’s Plans for the New Toronto Courthouse Still Have Significant Accessibility Barriers

By December 3, 2018, Please Send Us Feedback on the AODA Alliance’s Draft Brief to the David Onley Independent Review of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Society for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org  aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance By December 3, 2018, Send Us Feedback on the AODA Alliance’s Draft Brief to the David Onley Independent Review of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act November 23, 2018           SUMMARY Today … Continue reading By December 3, 2018, Please Send Us Feedback on the AODA Alliance’s Draft Brief to the David Onley Independent Review of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

CBC Radio and TV Report on the Ford Government’s Continued Freeze on the Work of Standards Development Committees to Tackle Disability Barriers in Ontario’s Education and Health Care Systems – and – The Ford Government Makes the Obviously Incorrect Claim that Ontario’s Accessibility Law Doesn’t Cover Accessibility of Buildings

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Society for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org  aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance CBC Radio and TV Report on the Ford Government’s Continued Freeze on the Work of Standards Development Committees  to Tackle Disability Barriers in Ontario’s Education and Health Care Systems – and – The … Continue reading CBC Radio and TV Report on the Ford Government’s Continued Freeze on the Work of Standards Development Committees to Tackle Disability Barriers in Ontario’s Education and Health Care Systems – and – The Ford Government Makes the Obviously Incorrect Claim that Ontario’s Accessibility Law Doesn’t Cover Accessibility of Buildings

AODA Alliance Writes Ontario’s New Minister for Accessibility and Seniors Raymond Cho to Introduce Ourselves and to Provide a detailed Briefing Note on Priorities Needing Action Now for 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Ontario for All People with Disabilities AODA Alliance Writes Ontario’s New Minister for Accessibility and Seniors Raymond Cho to Introduce Ourselves and to Provide a detailed Briefing Note on Priorities Needing Action Now for 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities July 17, 2018           … Continue reading AODA Alliance Writes Ontario’s New Minister for Accessibility and Seniors Raymond Cho to Introduce Ourselves and to Provide a detailed Briefing Note on Priorities Needing Action Now for 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities

News Release: What Will Today’s Throne Speech at Queen’s Park Offer 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities?

 ACCESSIBILITY FOR ONTARIANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT ALLIANCE NEWS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   What Will Today’s Throne Speech at Queen’s Park Offer 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities? July 12, 2018 Toronto: Community groups and advocates for the needs of 1.9 million Ontarians with disabilities are poised to scrutinize and respond to today’s Ontario Throne … Continue reading News Release: What Will Today’s Throne Speech at Queen’s Park Offer 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities?

Retrospective On Progress from October 2003 to June 2018 on Disability Accessibility Under the Ontario Liberal Government of Premiers Dalton McGuinty and Kathleen Wynne

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Ontario for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance Retrospective On Progress from October 2003 to June 2018 on Disability Accessibility Under the Ontario Liberal Government of Premiers Dalton McGuinty and Kathleen Wynne June 29, 2018           SUMMARY Today, Friday, June 29, … Continue reading Retrospective On Progress from October 2003 to June 2018 on Disability Accessibility Under the Ontario Liberal Government of Premiers Dalton McGuinty and Kathleen Wynne

AODA Alliance Writes Premier-Designate Doug Ford, as the Conservative Party Prepares to Take Power in Ontario

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Ontario for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance AODA Alliance Writes Premier-Designate Doug Ford, as the Conservative Party Prepares to Take Power in Ontario June 15, 2018           SUMMARY We have gotten right to work on developing a good working relationship … Continue reading AODA Alliance Writes Premier-Designate Doug Ford, as the Conservative Party Prepares to Take Power in Ontario

New 2-Minute Teaser/Promo Video Available for the Longer AODA Alliance Video on Accessibility Problems at New and Recently Renovated Toronto Public Transit Stations – and – Let Us Know If You Face Disability Barriers When Voting – and – Progress on AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky’s Latest Freedom of Information Application

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Ontario for All People with Disabilities New 2-Minute Teaser/Promo Video Available for the Longer AODA Alliance Video on Accessibility Problems at New and Recently Renovated Toronto Public Transit Stations – and – Let Us Know If You Face Disability Barriers When Voting – … Continue reading New 2-Minute Teaser/Promo Video Available for the Longer AODA Alliance Video on Accessibility Problems at New and Recently Renovated Toronto Public Transit Stations – and – Let Us Know If You Face Disability Barriers When Voting – and – Progress on AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky’s Latest Freedom of Information Application

More on the pressing Need for Ontario’s Next Government to Enact Strong New Laws to Ensure that Ontario’s Built Environment Becomes Accessible to 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Ontario for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance More on the pressing Need for Ontario’s Next Government to Enact Strong New Laws to Ensure that Ontario’s Built Environment Becomes Accessible to 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities June 4, 2018           SUMMARY … Continue reading More on the pressing Need for Ontario’s Next Government to Enact Strong New Laws to Ensure that Ontario’s Built Environment Becomes Accessible to 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities

On the Eve of the 2018 Ontario Election Campaign, the Wynne Government Made Public the Weak Final Recommendations of the Transportation Standards Development committee For Revisions to the 2011 Transportation Accessibility Standard – Reflecting an Impoverished Approach to Ontario’s Disabilities Act, The Wynne Government Said It is Not Seeking Public Input on those Recommendations

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Ontario for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance On the Eve of the 2018 Ontario Election Campaign, the Wynne Government Made Public the Weak Final Recommendations of the Transportation Standards Development committee For Revisions to the 2011 Transportation Accessibility Standard – … Continue reading On the Eve of the 2018 Ontario Election Campaign, the Wynne Government Made Public the Weak Final Recommendations of the Transportation Standards Development committee For Revisions to the 2011 Transportation Accessibility Standard – Reflecting an Impoverished Approach to Ontario’s Disabilities Act, The Wynne Government Said It is Not Seeking Public Input on those Recommendations

Any Time, You Can Watch Online the Archived Video of the May 21, 2018 Interview on TVO’s “The Agenda with Steve Paikin,” Addressing The 2018 Ontario Election’s Disability Accessibility Issues –and — More Proof That There Are Accessibility Problems at the New Toronto Courthouse, Planned to Be Built in the Heart of Downtown Toronto

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Ontario for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance Any Time, You Can Watch  Online the Archived Video of the May 21, 2018 Interview on TVO’s “The Agenda with Steve Paikin,” Addressing The 2018 Ontario Election’s Disability Accessibility Issues –and — More … Continue reading Any Time, You Can Watch Online the Archived Video of the May 21, 2018 Interview on TVO’s “The Agenda with Steve Paikin,” Addressing The 2018 Ontario Election’s Disability Accessibility Issues –and — More Proof That There Are Accessibility Problems at the New Toronto Courthouse, Planned to Be Built in the Heart of Downtown Toronto

Use and Widely circulate our new Election Action Kit — Full of tips on how to raise disability accessibility issues in this Ontario election

ACCESSIBILITY FOR ONTARIANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT ALLIANCE 2018 Ontario Election Action Kit Tell Candidates that In This Election, the Disability Vote Counts! #DisabilityVoteCounts aodafeedback@gmail.com www.aodaalliance.org Twitter: @aodaalliance May 19, 2018 It’s Time for Grassroots Action! This Election Action Kit gives you quick ways to help our non-partisan campaign to get stronger accessibility pledges from the … Continue reading Use and Widely circulate our new Election Action Kit — Full of tips on how to raise disability accessibility issues in this Ontario election

Wonderful Media Coverage of the AODA Alliance’s New Video on Serious Accessibility Problems at New and Recently-Renovated Toronto Area Public Transit Stations – Our Video Is Quickly Becoming a Key Part of Our Non-Partisan Accessibility Blitz During the 2018 Ontario Election Campaign

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Ontario for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance Wonderful Media Coverage of the AODA Alliance’s New Video on Serious Accessibility Problems at New and Recently-Renovated Toronto Area Public Transit Stations – Our Video Is Quickly Becoming a Key Part of Our … Continue reading Wonderful Media Coverage of the AODA Alliance’s New Video on Serious Accessibility Problems at New and Recently-Renovated Toronto Area Public Transit Stations – Our Video Is Quickly Becoming a Key Part of Our Non-Partisan Accessibility Blitz During the 2018 Ontario Election Campaign

News Release: Major Disability Coalition Unveils the Parties’ 2018 Election Pledges on Accessibility for 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance News Release For Immediate Release What Has Each Political Party Pledged to Do to Make Ontario Fully Accessible to 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities by 2025? Major Disability Coalition Unveils and Analyzes the Parties’ Pledges May 16, 2018 Toronto: With a province-wide live-streamed all-candidates’ debate between the parties … Continue reading News Release: Major Disability Coalition Unveils the Parties’ 2018 Election Pledges on Accessibility for 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities

The AODA Alliance’s Party-By-Party Analysis of the 2018 Election Disability Accessibility Commitments of the Major Ontario Political Parties

ACCESSIBILITY FOR ONTARIANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT ALLIANCE The AODA Alliance’s Party-By-Party Analysis of the 2018 Election Disability Accessibility Commitments of the Major Ontario Political Parties May 16, 2018 Introduction This is the AODA Alliance’s party-by-party analysis of the election commitments on disability accessibility that we have received. In providing this analysis, we emphasize that we … Continue reading The AODA Alliance’s Party-By-Party Analysis of the 2018 Election Disability Accessibility Commitments of the Major Ontario Political Parties

The AODA Alliance’s Issue-By-Issue Party Comparison of the Major Parties’ Election Commitments on Disability Accessibility

The AODA Alliance’s Issue-By-Issue Party Comparison of the Major Parties’ Election Commitments on Disability Accessibility   May 16, 2018   Introduction   On April 2, 2018, the AODA Alliance wrote the leaders of the major parties, seeking detailed election commitments on accessibility. Below is an issue-by-issue breakdown of the parties’ responses. The AODA Alliance bases … Continue reading The AODA Alliance’s Issue-By-Issue Party Comparison of the Major Parties’ Election Commitments on Disability Accessibility

Read the May 15, 2018 Letter from the Progressive Conservative Party to the AODA Alliance, Setting Out Its 2018 Election Commitments on Accessibility

May 15, 2018 David Lepofsky, Chair Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance (AODA Alliance) Dear David, The Ontario PC Party is pleased to respond to the AODA Alliance’s survey for the 2018 Ontario election. Our team is focused on providing a clear alternative to voters. After 15 years of high taxes and government mismanagement … Continue reading Read the May 15, 2018 Letter from the Progressive Conservative Party to the AODA Alliance, Setting Out Its 2018 Election Commitments on Accessibility

Read the May 14, 2018 Letter from the Liberal Party to the AODA Alliance, Setting Out Its 2018 Election Commitments on Accessibility

May 14, 2018 Mr. David Lepofsky Chair, Accessibility for Ontarians for Disabilities Act Alliance 1929 Bayview Ave Toronto, ON M4G 3E8 aodafeedback@gmail.com Dear David, Thank you very much for providing us with the opportunity to respond to the AODA Alliance Questionnaire. Please find attached our completed response. In 2014, the people of Ontario elected a … Continue reading Read the May 14, 2018 Letter from the Liberal Party to the AODA Alliance, Setting Out Its 2018 Election Commitments on Accessibility

Read the May 5, 2018 Letter from the New Democratic Party to the AODA Alliance, Setting Out Its 2018 Election Commitments on Accessibility

May 5, 2018 Dear AODA Alliance, Thank you for your letter dated April 3, 2018 regarding our election commitments on accessibility for Ontarians with disabilities. Ontario is at its best when everyone is able to reach their full potential and people of all abilities feel included and see themselves in Ontario’s future. People of all … Continue reading Read the May 5, 2018 Letter from the New Democratic Party to the AODA Alliance, Setting Out Its 2018 Election Commitments on Accessibility

Read the May 4, 2018 Letter from the Green Party to the AODA Alliance, Setting Out Its 2018 Election Commitments on Accessibility

David Lepofsky, CM, O.Ont. Chair, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance 1929 Bayview Avenue Toronto, Ontario M4G 3E8 Dear Mr.Lepofsky: Thank you for giving the Green Party of Ontario an opportunity to speak about issues of importance to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance. We have read over your list of election … Continue reading Read the May 4, 2018 Letter from the Green Party to the AODA Alliance, Setting Out Its 2018 Election Commitments on Accessibility

News Release: Grassroots Disability Coalition’s Powerful New Video Shows Serious Accessibility Problems at New and Recently Renovated Public Transit Stations in Toronto, As the Future of Accessibility for 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities Looms as an Ontario Election Issue

ACCESSIBILITY FOR ONTARIANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT ALLIANCE NEWS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   Grassroots Disability Coalition’s Powerful New Video Shows Serious Accessibility Problems at New and Recently Renovated Public Transit Stations in Toronto, As the Future of Accessibility for 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities Looms as an Ontario Election Issue   May 15, 2018 … Continue reading News Release: Grassroots Disability Coalition’s Powerful New Video Shows Serious Accessibility Problems at New and Recently Renovated Public Transit Stations in Toronto, As the Future of Accessibility for 1.9 Million Ontarians with Disabilities Looms as an Ontario Election Issue

AODA Alliance Writes Accessibility Minister Tracy MacCharles to Request Modest But Important Improvements to the Way Accessibility Standards are Developed Under Ontario’s Disabilities Act

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Ontario for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance AODA Alliance Writes Accessibility Minister Tracy MacCharles to Request Modest But Important Improvements to the Way Accessibility Standards are Developed Under Ontario’s Disabilities Act April 23, 2018           SUMMARY The AODA Alliance has … Continue reading AODA Alliance Writes Accessibility Minister Tracy MacCharles to Request Modest But Important Improvements to the Way Accessibility Standards are Developed Under Ontario’s Disabilities Act

The Wynne Government’s Plan for a New Courthouse in Downtown Toronto Has Significant Accessibility Problems – Yet In the 2014 Election, the Wynne Government Promised Never to Use Public Money to Create New Disability Barriers

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Ontario for All People with Disabilities The Wynne Government’s Plan for a New Courthouse in Downtown Toronto Has Significant Accessibility Problems – Yet In the 2014 Election, the Wynne Government Promised Never to Use Public Money to Create New Disability Barriers April 9, … Continue reading The Wynne Government’s Plan for a New Courthouse in Downtown Toronto Has Significant Accessibility Problems – Yet In the 2014 Election, the Wynne Government Promised Never to Use Public Money to Create New Disability Barriers

Ontario’s Accessibility Minister Convenes a Forum on Addressing Disability Barriers in Ontario’s Built Environment – We Await Follow-up Action

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Ontario for All People with Disabilities www.aodaalliance.org aodafeedback@gmail.com Twitter: @aodaalliance Ontario’s Accessibility Minister Convenes a Forum on Addressing Disability Barriers in Ontario’s Built Environment – We Await Follow-up Action April 8, 2018           SUMMARY On March 19, 2018, Ontario’s Accessibility Minister, Tracy MacCharles, … Continue reading Ontario’s Accessibility Minister Convenes a Forum on Addressing Disability Barriers in Ontario’s Built Environment – We Await Follow-up Action

The Wynne Government Offers Nothing New to Address Disability Barriers in the Built Environment – and – Awaiting the Wynne Government’s Appointment of the next AODA Independent Review, and Other News on Accessibility to Start the New Year

January 19, 2018 SUMMARY Happy new year. In our first Update for 2018, we bring you up to speed on some recent developments regarding: * A recent glitch with our AODA Alliance Update email service. * Our call for new Government action on accessibility in the built environment. * The Wynne Government’s duty to appoint … Continue reading The Wynne Government Offers Nothing New to Address Disability Barriers in the Built Environment – and – Awaiting the Wynne Government’s Appointment of the next AODA Independent Review, and Other News on Accessibility to Start the New Year

Anniversary of Wynne Government Inaction — One Year After Promising A New Regulation for One-Third of a Million Ontario Students with Disabilities to Tear Down Disability Barriers in Schools, Colleges and Universities, Why Hasn’t Premier Wynne Appointed the Mandatory Advisory Committee to Recommend What that Regulation Should Include?

December 4, 2017 Tomorrow, December 5, 2017, will mark the one-year anniversary of Premier Wynne promising to develop and enact a new regulation under Ontario’s Disabilities Act, to tear down the many disability barriers that impede one-third of a million Ontario students with disabilities from fully benefitting from schools, colleges and universities. Yet her Government … Continue reading Anniversary of Wynne Government Inaction — One Year After Promising A New Regulation for One-Third of a Million Ontario Students with Disabilities to Tear Down Disability Barriers in Schools, Colleges and Universities, Why Hasn’t Premier Wynne Appointed the Mandatory Advisory Committee to Recommend What that Regulation Should Include?

On the Eve of the International Day for People with Disabilities, will the Wynne Government Invest $125 Million In Another New Public University Building Whose Preliminary Design Has Serious Accessibility Problems?

December 1, 2017 Toronto: On the eve of the International Day for People with Disabilities (December 3), it looks like millions of provincial dollars are destined for another brand-new building with serious disability accessibility problems, in a preliminary design revealed two days ago. These problems are similar to some of those which the grassroots AODA … Continue reading On the Eve of the International Day for People with Disabilities, will the Wynne Government Invest $125 Million In Another New Public University Building Whose Preliminary Design Has Serious Accessibility Problems?

Amazing Responses to, Including More Media Coverage of our New Video on Serious Accessibility Problems at Ryerson University’s New Student Learning Centre — and — The Wynne Government Is Taking Longer Just to Appoint a Standards Development Committee on Education Barriers Facing Students with Disabilities Than It Took the Government to Create Ontario’s Entire Disabilities Act

November 17, 2017 1. Amazing Response to the AODA Alliance’s New Online Video Showing Serious Accessibility Problems at Ryerson University’s New Student Learning Centre There has been an amazing response to the AODA Alliance’s new online video, exceeding our hopes and expectations. This video that shows serious accessibility problems at the new Ryerson Student Learning … Continue reading Amazing Responses to, Including More Media Coverage of our New Video on Serious Accessibility Problems at Ryerson University’s New Student Learning Centre — and — The Wynne Government Is Taking Longer Just to Appoint a Standards Development Committee on Education Barriers Facing Students with Disabilities Than It Took the Government to Create Ontario’s Entire Disabilities Act

New AODA Alliance Video on Accessibility Problems at Ryerson University Student Learning Centre Gets Great Media Coverage and Over 2,700 Views on YouTube in Four Days Since Its Launch – Press Your Member of the Ontario Legislature to Watch It!

November 2, 2017 There has been great media coverage of the new AODA Alliance video on accessibility problems at Ryerson University’s new Student Learning Centre, in the Toronto Star on November 2, 2017 and on CITY TV on October 29, 2017. We set those articles out below. Our new video on the Ryerson Student Learning … Continue reading New AODA Alliance Video on Accessibility Problems at Ryerson University Student Learning Centre Gets Great Media Coverage and Over 2,700 Views on YouTube in Four Days Since Its Launch – Press Your Member of the Ontario Legislature to Watch It!

Grassroots Disability Coalition Unveils Powerful New Video Showing Serious Accessibility Problems at the New Ryerson University Student Learning Centre – On 19th Anniversary of Landmark Unanimous Legislature Resolution Calling for Strong Accessibility Law, this Video Shows Ontario Falling Further Behind Schedule for Becoming Accessible by 2025

October 29, 2017 Toronto The AODA Alliance today makes public a striking 12-minute video (and a more detailed 30-minute version) revealing significant disability accessibility barriers in a new public building in the heart of downtown Toronto, built in part with public money. This video documents accessibility problems at the new Ryerson University Student Learning Centre … Continue reading Grassroots Disability Coalition Unveils Powerful New Video Showing Serious Accessibility Problems at the New Ryerson University Student Learning Centre – On 19th Anniversary of Landmark Unanimous Legislature Resolution Calling for Strong Accessibility Law, this Video Shows Ontario Falling Further Behind Schedule for Becoming Accessible by 2025

AODA Alliance Calls On the Wynne Government to Take Action to Ensure Ontario’s Built Environment Becomes Disability-Accessible by 2025

October 23, 2017 Summary On October 23, 2017, the AODA Alliance wrote the Wynne Government’s Accessibility Minister, Tracy MacCharles. It called for the Government to take immediate and decisive action to ensure that the built environment in Ontario becomes fully accessible by the 2025 deadline that the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act imposes. Our … Continue reading AODA Alliance Calls On the Wynne Government to Take Action to Ensure Ontario’s Built Environment Becomes Disability-Accessible by 2025

Will the Massive New Courthouse that The Wynne Government Is Planning for the Heart of Downtown Toronto Have Sufficient Disability Accessibility?

October 6, 2017 Summary Many think any new building built in Ontario must be fully accessible for people with disabilities. Sadly, neither the Ontario Building Code nor the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act ensures this. To the contrary, new buildings are now built in Ontario, even with public money, that lack proper accessibility. In … Continue reading Will the Massive New Courthouse that The Wynne Government Is Planning for the Heart of Downtown Toronto Have Sufficient Disability Accessibility?

After Almost Three Months, The Wynne Government Answers the AODA Alliance’s Request for An Update on Government Plans on Implementing and Enforcing the AODA, but Several of Our Important Questions Remain Unanswered

June 23, 2017 Summary Back on March 16, 2017, the AODA Alliance wrote Ontario’s Accessibility Minister Tracy MacCharles, to ask what the Government has recently done, and what it plans to do over the next year, to implement and enforce the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. Eighty-three days after we wrote, the Minister responded. The Government’s … Continue reading After Almost Three Months, The Wynne Government Answers the AODA Alliance’s Request for An Update on Government Plans on Implementing and Enforcing the AODA, but Several of Our Important Questions Remain Unanswered

The Federal Government Releases Report of Its Public Consultation on What the Promised Canadians with Disabilities Act Should Include – Lots of Good Content But Some Areas Where The Federal Report Falls Short

June 13, 2017 Summary On May 29, 2017, the Federal Government released a detailed 63-page report on what its promised Canadians with Disabilities Act should include, according to the feedback the Federal Government received during its public consultation. It held public forums and roundtables across Canada, and an online survey, from the 2016 summer through … Continue reading The Federal Government Releases Report of Its Public Consultation on What the Promised Canadians with Disabilities Act Should Include – Lots of Good Content But Some Areas Where The Federal Report Falls Short

An Interim Victory for Our Grassroots Campaign – Wynne Government at Last Invites Applications to Serve on the Education Standards Development Committee

May 29, 2017 Summary Let’s celebrate victories, even interim ones!  We have just won one. On Thursday, May 25, 2017, after we waged a 171-day campaign, the Wynne Government has finally started the delayed process of recruiting people to serve on the promised Education Standards Development Committee, to be appointed under the Accessibility for Ontarians … Continue reading An Interim Victory for Our Grassroots Campaign – Wynne Government at Last Invites Applications to Serve on the Education Standards Development Committee

AODA Alliance sends the Wynne Government Detailed Recommendations to Make Sure that the major Renovation to the Government’s Hub in Toronto, the Macdonald Block, Is Fully Accessible to People with Disabilities

April 7, 2017 Summary The Wynne Government is planning a major renovation to the Macdonald Block, the major complex in the heart of downtown Toronto that houses the headquarters of a number of key Government ministries and offices. The Government recently reached out to the AODA Alliance for input on what it should do to … Continue reading AODA Alliance sends the Wynne Government Detailed Recommendations to Make Sure that the major Renovation to the Government’s Hub in Toronto, the Macdonald Block, Is Fully Accessible to People with Disabilities

With Only One Year Until the 2018 Ontario Election Campaign, the AODA Alliance Asks Accessibility Minister Tracy MacCharles for a Detailed Update on What the Ontario Government is Doing and Plans to Do to Ensure Ontario Reaches Full Accessibility for 1.8 Million Ontarians with Disabilities by 2025

March 16, 2017 Summary The AODA Alliance has just written the Wynne Government’s lead minister responsible for leading Ontario to full accessibility by 2025, Accessibility Minister Tracy MacCharles. We ask for a detailed update on what the Government has been doing, and what it plans to do, to ensure that Ontario reaches full accessibility by … Continue reading With Only One Year Until the 2018 Ontario Election Campaign, the AODA Alliance Asks Accessibility Minister Tracy MacCharles for a Detailed Update on What the Ontario Government is Doing and Plans to Do to Ensure Ontario Reaches Full Accessibility for 1.8 Million Ontarians with Disabilities by 2025

AODA Alliance Writes Tracy MacCharles to Propose Action Priorities for Her as Both Accessibility Minister and Minister of Government and Consumer Services

January 16, 2017 SUMMARY Now that Premier Wynne has assigned Tracy MacCharles to serve as both Ontario’s Accessibility Minister and Minister of Government and Consumer Services, the AODA Alliance has written Minister MacCharles to provide a thorough list of priorities for action on accessibility in each portfolio. We set out that letter below. This new … Continue reading AODA Alliance Writes Tracy MacCharles to Propose Action Priorities for Her as Both Accessibility Minister and Minister of Government and Consumer Services

Tell Us What Accessibility Barriers You Have Faced in Ontario’s Health Care System –We’re Preparing a Brief for the Wynne Government – and – Learn What Happened at the Wynne Government’s “pre-Consultation” on the Promised Health Care Accessibility Standard, and About the Government’s Earlier “Pre-Pre-Consultation on Health Care Barriers that Didn’t Consult Patients with Disabilities

August 4, 2016 SUMMARY We are preparing a brief for the Accessibility Directorate of Ontario on the barriers that people with disabilities face in the health care system. This is part of the Government’s “pre-consultation” on the Health Care Accessibility Standard that the Wynne Government promised 18 months ago to create under the Accessibility for … Continue reading Tell Us What Accessibility Barriers You Have Faced in Ontario’s Health Care System –We’re Preparing a Brief for the Wynne Government – and – Learn What Happened at the Wynne Government’s “pre-Consultation” on the Promised Health Care Accessibility Standard, and About the Government’s Earlier “Pre-Pre-Consultation on Health Care Barriers that Didn’t Consult Patients with Disabilities

Send Us Feedback on Our Latest Draft Brief to the Wynne Government on Proposed Revisions to the 2007 Customer Service Accessibility Standard — and — On YouTube, You Can Now Watch AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky’s March 3, 2016 Interview on The Agenda With Steve Paikin

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario March 4, 2016 SUMMARY 1. We Need Your Feedback Fast! We eagerly want your feedback on our latest draft brief to the Wynne Government on its weak proposed revisions to the already-weak 2007 Customer Service Accessibility Standard. … Continue reading Send Us Feedback on Our Latest Draft Brief to the Wynne Government on Proposed Revisions to the 2007 Customer Service Accessibility Standard — and — On YouTube, You Can Now Watch AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky’s March 3, 2016 Interview on The Agenda With Steve Paikin

The Wynne Government Gives the Public up to March 14, 2016 to Comment on the Text of Proposed Regulations that Would Revise Ontario Accessibility Standards – The Wynne Government Barrels Ahead with Plans to Break Kathleen Wynne’s Promise Not to Weaken Accessibility Protections

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario February 5, 2016 SUMMARY We need your help, and soon! On January 29, 2016, the Wynne Government posted online for public comment a draft of a regulation it proposes to enact under the Accessibility for Ontarians with … Continue reading The Wynne Government Gives the Public up to March 14, 2016 to Comment on the Text of Proposed Regulations that Would Revise Ontario Accessibility Standards – The Wynne Government Barrels Ahead with Plans to Break Kathleen Wynne’s Promise Not to Weaken Accessibility Protections

Wynne Government Extends Time For Feedback on Troubling Proposed changes to Accessibility Standards, But Doesn’t Publicize This Extension – and – Why Not Organize a Public Forum to Rally Grassroots Action to advocate for Disability Accessibility Like the Kingston Area Public Forum Queens University Is Hosting On January 22, 2016?

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario January 8, 2016 SUMMARY 1. There Is Still Time to Tell the Wynne Government If You Share Our Concerns with Troubling Proposed Changes to Accessibility Standards in Place in Ontario Here’s some good news: The Wynne Government … Continue reading Wynne Government Extends Time For Feedback on Troubling Proposed changes to Accessibility Standards, But Doesn’t Publicize This Extension – and – Why Not Organize a Public Forum to Rally Grassroots Action to advocate for Disability Accessibility Like the Kingston Area Public Forum Queens University Is Hosting On January 22, 2016?

Please Let the Wynne Government Know If You Support the AODA Alliance’s Finalized Submission on the Government’s Problematic Proposed Amendments to the 2007 Customer Service Accessibility Standard and the 2011 Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario December 4, 2015 SUMMARY Back on November 9, 2015, the Wynne Government posted for public comment a short summary of amendments that it proposes to make to the 2007 Customer Service Accessibility Standard and the 2011 Integrated … Continue reading Please Let the Wynne Government Know If You Support the AODA Alliance’s Finalized Submission on the Government’s Problematic Proposed Amendments to the 2007 Customer Service Accessibility Standard and the 2011 Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation

Full Accessibility of Voting in the October 19, 2015 Federal Canadian Election Remains an Unacceptable Uncertainty for Voters with Disabilities

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario October 16, 2015 SUMMARY In the final days leading up to the October 19, 2015 federal election, voters with disabilities still have no assurance from Elections Canada that the vote will be fully accessible to them. This … Continue reading Full Accessibility of Voting in the October 19, 2015 Federal Canadian Election Remains an Unacceptable Uncertainty for Voters with Disabilities

Toronto 2015 Organization Confirms It’s Not Good Enough for Games Stadiums To Be Accessible – An Accessibility Legacy for the Toronto 2015 Games Should Also Include Improved Accessibility to Tourism and Hospitality Services – and Other Accessibility News about the 2015 ParaPan American Games

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario August 11, 2015 Summary 1. Toronto 2015 Organizing Committee Concedes that it’s Not Good Enough to Ensure Accessible ParaPan American Games Stadiums – Accessibility of Community Tourism and Hospitality Establishments Must Also Be Improved We have received … Continue reading Toronto 2015 Organization Confirms It’s Not Good Enough for Games Stadiums To Be Accessible – An Accessibility Legacy for the Toronto 2015 Games Should Also Include Improved Accessibility to Tourism and Hospitality Services – and Other Accessibility News about the 2015 ParaPan American Games

Toronto 2015 Pan/ParaPan Am Games Official Website Lacks Required Accessibility for People with Disabilities – Flying in the Face of Wynne Government’s Claim These Are the Most Accessible ParaPan American Games Ever

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario August 6, 2015 Summary On the eve of the Toronto 2015 ParaPan American Games, and despite Wynne Government claims that these will be “The Most Accessible Parapan Am Games Ever,” the Toronto 2015 website inexcusably lacks full … Continue reading Toronto 2015 Pan/ParaPan Am Games Official Website Lacks Required Accessibility for People with Disabilities – Flying in the Face of Wynne Government’s Claim These Are the Most Accessible ParaPan American Games Ever

AODA Alliance Makes Public a “Reality Check” on the Wynne Government’s August 4, 2015 News Release Re the Upcoming Toronto 2015 ParaPan American Games – Government Claims on Its Accessibility Accomplishments Are Overstated

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario August 5, 2015 Summary In an August 4, 2015 news release (set out at the end of this Update), the Wynne Government claims that the upcoming Toronto 2015 ParaPan American Games will be “The Most Accessible Parapan … Continue reading AODA Alliance Makes Public a “Reality Check” on the Wynne Government’s August 4, 2015 News Release Re the Upcoming Toronto 2015 ParaPan American Games – Government Claims on Its Accessibility Accomplishments Are Overstated

Despite All the Official Rejoicing, Toronto 2015 Pan Am Games Sadly Missed a Huge Chance for a Great Legacy for Ontarians with Disabilities by Failing to Increase Accessibility of Tourism/Hospitality Venues like Restaurants and Stores – Before any 2024 Toronto Olympic Bid, Ontario Must Ensure It Doesn’t Repeat This Wasteful Mistake

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario July 28, 2015 Summary Toronto: Despite all the official self-congratulation over the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games, Ontario inexcusably missed a huge chance to create a lasting Games legacy of increased accessibility of tourism/hospitality services (like restaurants, … Continue reading Despite All the Official Rejoicing, Toronto 2015 Pan Am Games Sadly Missed a Huge Chance for a Great Legacy for Ontarians with Disabilities by Failing to Increase Accessibility of Tourism/Hospitality Venues like Restaurants and Stores – Before any 2024 Toronto Olympic Bid, Ontario Must Ensure It Doesn’t Repeat This Wasteful Mistake

Two Preventable Accessibility Problems Facing Tourists with Disabilities Already Surfaced for the Toronto 2015 Pan/ParaPan American Games – The Media Had To Shine a Spotlight on Them Before They Were Addressed

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario June 22, 2015 Summary The Wynne Government has said that the Toronto 2015 Pan/ParaPan American Games give Ontario a great chance to showcase for the world the globe-leading progress Ontario is making towards becoming fully accessible to … Continue reading Two Preventable Accessibility Problems Facing Tourists with Disabilities Already Surfaced for the Toronto 2015 Pan/ParaPan American Games – The Media Had To Shine a Spotlight on Them Before They Were Addressed

Yet More Proof that the Wynne Government is Inexcusably Doing Nothing to Get More Restaurants, Stores and Other Tourism/Hospitality Services to Become Accessible to Customers with Disabilities Before the Toronto 2015 Pan/ParaPan American Games – And – More News on Accessibility and the Toronto 2015 Games

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario June 15, 2015 Summary When a government spends huge amounts on an international sport competition like the Toronto 2015 Pan/ ParaPan American Games, the public wants a long-term return on its investment. The long-term improvements left behind … Continue reading Yet More Proof that the Wynne Government is Inexcusably Doing Nothing to Get More Restaurants, Stores and Other Tourism/Hospitality Services to Become Accessible to Customers with Disabilities Before the Toronto 2015 Pan/ParaPan American Games – And – More News on Accessibility and the Toronto 2015 Games

NDP MPP Percy Hatfield Introduces a Private Member’s Bill into the Ontario Legislature to Make it Easier for Businesses to Make Their Premises Accessible to Customers and Employees with Disabilities

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario June 3, 2015 Summary Here’s more news on a busy day on the accessibility front. As a great way to help advance the cause of accessibility for people with disabilities during this National Access Awareness Week, and … Continue reading NDP MPP Percy Hatfield Introduces a Private Member’s Bill into the Ontario Legislature to Make it Easier for Businesses to Make Their Premises Accessible to Customers and Employees with Disabilities

Ontario Human Rights Commission’s Chief Commissioner Endorses the AODA Alliance’s Call to Ensure a Legacy of Improved Tourism/ Hospitality Accessibility for the 2015 Toronto Pan/ParaPan American Games, While Former Premier David Peterson Reportedly Confirms the Games Are $56 Million Under Budget – Yet Still No Announced Ontario Government Strategy to Ensure Greater Accessibility of Tourism/Hospitality Services as Hundreds of Thousands Expected to Come to the Greater Toronto Area for the 2015 Games

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario May 22, 2015 Summary On Thursday, May 21, 2015, internationally celebrated as Global Access Awareness Day, the interim Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commission, Ruth Goba, released an important public statement on disability accessibility. She … Continue reading Ontario Human Rights Commission’s Chief Commissioner Endorses the AODA Alliance’s Call to Ensure a Legacy of Improved Tourism/ Hospitality Accessibility for the 2015 Toronto Pan/ParaPan American Games, While Former Premier David Peterson Reportedly Confirms the Games Are $56 Million Under Budget – Yet Still No Announced Ontario Government Strategy to Ensure Greater Accessibility of Tourism/Hospitality Services as Hundreds of Thousands Expected to Come to the Greater Toronto Area for the 2015 Games

Media Reports that a Guelph Children’s Play Centre Refused to Accommodate A Child with Cerebral Palsy – Another Illustration of How Far Ontario Still Must Go to Be the “World Leader on Accessibility” that the Wynne Government Claims We Have Become

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario April 1, 2015 Summary 1. Reports of Another Denial of Accessibility in Ontario Is Ontario the global leader on accessibility for people with disabilities that the Wynne Government claims we are? In the past three days, the … Continue reading Media Reports that a Guelph Children’s Play Centre Refused to Accommodate A Child with Cerebral Palsy – Another Illustration of How Far Ontario Still Must Go to Be the “World Leader on Accessibility” that the Wynne Government Claims We Have Become

Final Report of Mayo Moran’s Independent Review of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Just Made Public – Report Reveals Serious Problems – Ontarians with Disabilities See Too Little Progress on Accessibility, While Business and Municipalities Find Accessibility Regulations Too Vague — and — Wynne Government Announces It Will Develop an Accessibility Regulation to Tackle Disability Barriers in Health Care Services, but Says Nothing about Doing So to Address Barriers in Education or Residential Housing

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario February 13, 2015 Summary Here is major news on the accessibility front in Ontario. The Wynne Government today made public the final report of the Independent Review of the Government’s implementation and enforcement of the Accessibility for … Continue reading Final Report of Mayo Moran’s Independent Review of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Just Made Public – Report Reveals Serious Problems – Ontarians with Disabilities See Too Little Progress on Accessibility, While Business and Municipalities Find Accessibility Regulations Too Vague — and — Wynne Government Announces It Will Develop an Accessibility Regulation to Tackle Disability Barriers in Health Care Services, but Says Nothing about Doing So to Address Barriers in Education or Residential Housing

The Accessibility Standards Advisory Council Submits Weak, Ineffective and Counter-productive Final Recommendations to the Ontario Government for Proposed Revisions to the Customer Service Accessibility Standard – The AODA Alliance Calls on the Government to Keep Its Promise Not to Weaken any Existing Accessibility Protections

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario November 12, 2014 Summary We regret to have to report to you about yet another major lost opportunity on the accessibility front in Ontario. This is especially troubling as Ontario continues to rudderlessly languish behind schedule for … Continue reading The Accessibility Standards Advisory Council Submits Weak, Ineffective and Counter-productive Final Recommendations to the Ontario Government for Proposed Revisions to the Customer Service Accessibility Standard – The AODA Alliance Calls on the Government to Keep Its Promise Not to Weaken any Existing Accessibility Protections

AODA Alliance Writes the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to Identify Key Accessibility Priorities for that Ministry

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario September 17, 2014 Summary On September 16, 2014, the AODA Alliance wrote the new Ontario Minister for Municipal Affairs and Housing, Ted McMeekin. In that letter, set out below, we identify key priorities on disability accessibility for … Continue reading AODA Alliance Writes the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to Identify Key Accessibility Priorities for that Ministry

AODA Alliance Writes New Ontario Government Services Minister to Urge Action to Make the Ontario Public Service a Fully Accessible Workplace and Provider of Public Services

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario September 12, 2014 Summary On September 12, 2014, the AODA Alliance wrote Ontario’s new Minister of Government and Consumer Services, David Orazietti. (Letter set out below.) He is the minister responsible for the Ontario Public Service as … Continue reading AODA Alliance Writes New Ontario Government Services Minister to Urge Action to Make the Ontario Public Service a Fully Accessible Workplace and Provider of Public Services

Toronto Star Reports on Wynne Government’s Failure to Ensure an Effective Disability Accessibility Legacy for the 2015 Toronto Pan/ParaPan American Games

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario September 3, 2014 Summary On page A-8 of the September 3, 2014 Toronto Star is an excellent article reporting on the Wynne Government’s failure to ensure that the huge public investment in the 2015 Toronto Pan/ParaPan American … Continue reading Toronto Star Reports on Wynne Government’s Failure to Ensure an Effective Disability Accessibility Legacy for the 2015 Toronto Pan/ParaPan American Games

One Full Year to the Day After the Wynne Government Unveiled Its Planned Legacy for the 2015 Toronto Pan/ParaPan American Games, Where is the Comprehensive Plan for a Strong and Lasting Legacy of Improved Disability Accessibility?

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario August 28, 2014 Summary This is an important anniversary on the road to a fully accessible Ontario, but not a happy one. Today marks one full year since the Wynne Government held a carefully-staged news conference to … Continue reading One Full Year to the Day After the Wynne Government Unveiled Its Planned Legacy for the 2015 Toronto Pan/ParaPan American Games, Where is the Comprehensive Plan for a Strong and Lasting Legacy of Improved Disability Accessibility?

AODA Alliance Writes New Minister Responsible for Implementing and Enforcing the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act to Urge Priorities for Prompt Action

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario August 14, 2014 Summary On August 14, 2014, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance wrote Mr. Brad Duguid, the new Ontario Minister for Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure. He is the new Ontario cabinet minister … Continue reading AODA Alliance Writes New Minister Responsible for Implementing and Enforcing the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act to Urge Priorities for Prompt Action

Please Email the Ontario Government to Say If You Endorse Our Final Brief on the Initial Proposed Revisions to the 2007 Customer Service Accessibility Standard – At Our Request the Government Extended the Deadline to May 22, 2014 to Send Feedback

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario April 8, 2014 Summary We have sent the Ontario Government our finalized April 4, 2014 brief on the initial proposal for revisions to the 2007 Customer Service Accessibility Standard. We strongly encourage you to let the Government … Continue reading Please Email the Ontario Government to Say If You Endorse Our Final Brief on the Initial Proposed Revisions to the 2007 Customer Service Accessibility Standard – At Our Request the Government Extended the Deadline to May 22, 2014 to Send Feedback

Ontario’s Accessibility Standards Advisory Council Announces Public Consultations on Its Initial Proposal for Revisions to the 2007 Customer Service Accessibility Standard – But Refuses Our Requests to Make This Consultation More Open, Inclusive and Effective

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario March 14, 2014 Summary 1. Up to April 16, 2014, Give Your Feedback on the Accessibility Standards Advisory Council’s Initial Proposal for Revisions to the 2007 Customer Service Accessibility Standard On Monday, March 3, 2014, the Ontario … Continue reading Ontario’s Accessibility Standards Advisory Council Announces Public Consultations on Its Initial Proposal for Revisions to the 2007 Customer Service Accessibility Standard – But Refuses Our Requests to Make This Consultation More Open, Inclusive and Effective

PLEASE TELL THE WYNNE GOVERNMENT IF YOU SUPPORT OUR NEW BRIEF ON PROPOSED ACCESSIBILITY REFORMS TO THE ONTARIO BUILDING CODE

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org UNITED FOR A BARRIER-FREE ONTARIO April 14, 2013 SUMMARY On March 25, 2013, the … Continue reading PLEASE TELL THE WYNNE GOVERNMENT IF YOU SUPPORT OUR NEW BRIEF ON PROPOSED ACCESSIBILITY REFORMS TO THE ONTARIO BUILDING CODE

Download the Ontario Government’s Fall 2012 Proposals for Reforming The Accessibility Provisions of the Ontario Building Code

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org UNITED FOR A BARRIER-FREE ONTARIO March 28, 2013 SUMMARY In the fall of 2012, … Continue reading Download the Ontario Government’s Fall 2012 Proposals for Reforming The Accessibility Provisions of the Ontario Building Code

Click here to find out how to download the AODA Alliance’s March 25, 2013 Brief to the Ontario Government on the Proposed Accessibility Reforms to the Ontario Building Code

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org UNITED FOR A BARRIER-FREE ONTARIO March 25, 2013 SUMMARY On March 25, 2013, the … Continue reading Click here to find out how to download the AODA Alliance’s March 25, 2013 Brief to the Ontario Government on the Proposed Accessibility Reforms to the Ontario Building Code

AODA ALLIANCE WRITES DR. ERIC HOSKINS, ONTARIO’S NEW MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR IMPLEMENTING AND ENFORCING THE DISABILITIES ACT, TO URGE PROMPT AND DECISIVE ACTION

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org UNITED FOR A BARRIER-FREE ONTARIO February 27, 2013 SUMMARY On February 27, 2013, the … Continue reading AODA ALLIANCE WRITES DR. ERIC HOSKINS, ONTARIO’S NEW MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR IMPLEMENTING AND ENFORCING THE DISABILITIES ACT, TO URGE PROMPT AND DECISIVE ACTION

ONTARIO GOVERNMENT ENACTS NEW ACCESSIBILITY REGULATION SETTING STANDARDS FOR ACCESSIBILITY OF PUBLIC SPACES – AND CONDUCTS PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON PROPOSED ACCESSIBILITY REFORMS TO THE ONTARIO BUILDING CODE

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org February 15, 2013 SUMMARY 1. New Public Spaces Accessibility Standard is Now the Law … Continue reading ONTARIO GOVERNMENT ENACTS NEW ACCESSIBILITY REGULATION SETTING STANDARDS FOR ACCESSIBILITY OF PUBLIC SPACES – AND CONDUCTS PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON PROPOSED ACCESSIBILITY REFORMS TO THE ONTARIO BUILDING CODE

LET THE MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT KNOW IF YOU SUPPORT THE AODA ALLIANCE’S OCTOBER 4 2012 FINAL BRIEF ON ITS DRAFT PUBLIC SPACES ACCESSIBILITY REGULATION –ONTARIO HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION SUPPORTS OUR CONCERNS ABOUT THAT DRAF REGULATION

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org UNITED FOR A BARRIER-FREE ONTARIO October 4, 2012 SUMMARY 1. Our Latest Effort in … Continue reading LET THE MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT KNOW IF YOU SUPPORT THE AODA ALLIANCE’S OCTOBER 4 2012 FINAL BRIEF ON ITS DRAFT PUBLIC SPACES ACCESSIBILITY REGULATION –ONTARIO HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION SUPPORTS OUR CONCERNS ABOUT THAT DRAF REGULATION

SEND US FEEDBACK ON OUR DRAFT BRIEF TO THE MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT ON ITS AUGUST 15, 2012 DRAFT ACCESSIBILITY REGULATION TO ADDRESS BARRIERS IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT OF PUBLIC SPACES

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org UNITED FOR A BARRIER-FREE ONTARIO September 20, 2012 SUMMARY We have just released a … Continue reading SEND US FEEDBACK ON OUR DRAFT BRIEF TO THE MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT ON ITS AUGUST 15, 2012 DRAFT ACCESSIBILITY REGULATION TO ADDRESS BARRIERS IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT OF PUBLIC SPACES

ATTEND THE TORONTO SEPTEMBER 18 2012 PUBLIC FORUM DISCUSSION BY PANEL OF EXPERTS ON MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSED REGULATION TO ADDRESS BUILT ENVIRONMENT BARRIERS IN PUBLIC SPACES

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org UNITED FOR A BARRIER-FREE ONTARIO September 11, 2012 SUMMARY On August 15, 2012, the … Continue reading ATTEND THE TORONTO SEPTEMBER 18 2012 PUBLIC FORUM DISCUSSION BY PANEL OF EXPERTS ON MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSED REGULATION TO ADDRESS BUILT ENVIRONMENT BARRIERS IN PUBLIC SPACES

MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT POSTS A DRAFT PARTIAL BUILT ENVIRONMENT ACCESSIBILITY STANDARD TO ADDRESS BARRIERS IN PUBLIC SPACES, NOT INSIDE BUILDINGS – SEND THE GOVERNMENT FEEDBACK BY OCTOBER 1, 2012- STILL NO WORD ON WHEN AN ACCESSIBILITY STANDARD IS COMING TO ADDRESS BARRIERS IN BUILDINGS

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org UNITED FOR A BARRIER-FREE ONTARIO August 16, 2012 SUMMARY Late on August 15, 2012, … Continue reading MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT POSTS A DRAFT PARTIAL BUILT ENVIRONMENT ACCESSIBILITY STANDARD TO ADDRESS BARRIERS IN PUBLIC SPACES, NOT INSIDE BUILDINGS – SEND THE GOVERNMENT FEEDBACK BY OCTOBER 1, 2012- STILL NO WORD ON WHEN AN ACCESSIBILITY STANDARD IS COMING TO ADDRESS BARRIERS IN BUILDINGS

AODA ALLIANCE PRESSES TWO CABINET MINISTERS ON PLANS TO FINALIZE THE OVERDUE BUILT ENVIRONMENT ACCESSIBILITY STANDARD THAT THE MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT LAST AUGUST PROMISED TO ENACT “PROMPTLY”

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org UNITED FOR A BARRIER-FREE ONTARIO June 4, 2012 SUMMARY The Accessibility for Ontarians with … Continue reading AODA ALLIANCE PRESSES TWO CABINET MINISTERS ON PLANS TO FINALIZE THE OVERDUE BUILT ENVIRONMENT ACCESSIBILITY STANDARD THAT THE MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT LAST AUGUST PROMISED TO ENACT “PROMPTLY”

WHAT PLANS DOES THE MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT HAVE FOR KEEPING ITS 2011 ELECTION ACCESSIBILITY PROMISES? SEVEN CABINET MINISTERS REPLY TO OUR INQUIRIES BUT GIVE VERY FEW SPECIFICS

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org UNITED FOR A BARRIER-FREE ONTARIO May 4, 2012 SUMMARY In the 2007 Ontario election, … Continue reading WHAT PLANS DOES THE MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT HAVE FOR KEEPING ITS 2011 ELECTION ACCESSIBILITY PROMISES? SEVEN CABINET MINISTERS REPLY TO OUR INQUIRIES BUT GIVE VERY FEW SPECIFICS

TO MARK INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, AODA ALLIANCE IDENTIFIES MAJOR ACTIONS NEEDED BY KEY ONTARIO CABINET MINISTERS TO ADVANCE ONTARIO TOWARDS FULL ACCESSIBILITY

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org UNITED FOR A BARRIER-FREE ONTARIO December 3, 2011 SUMMARY Today December 3, 2011, is … Continue reading TO MARK INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, AODA ALLIANCE IDENTIFIES MAJOR ACTIONS NEEDED BY KEY ONTARIO CABINET MINISTERS TO ADVANCE ONTARIO TOWARDS FULL ACCESSIBILITY

AODA ALLIANCE WRITES NEW MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR THE AODA TO LIST KEY ACCESSIBILITY PRIORITIES

If you don’t now receive our updates directly from us, sign up for AODA Alliance e-mail updates by writing to our new email address: aodafeedback@gmail.comFollow us on Twitter and get others to do so as well! Twitter.com/aodaalliance Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org UNITED FOR A BARRIER-FREE ONTARIO November 1, 2011 SUMMARY The Honourable John Milloy has been … Continue reading AODA ALLIANCE WRITES NEW MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR THE AODA TO LIST KEY ACCESSIBILITY PRIORITIES

Comparison of the Major Parties’ 2011 Election Commitments on Disability Accessibility

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org September 2, 2011 SUMMARY This is a list of the commitments we sought from Ontario’s major parties on disability accessibility, and their actual commitments, on an issue-by-issue basis. Our July 15, 2011 letter to the parties, seeking their commitments, can be found at: http://www.www.aodaalliance.org/whats-new/new2011/aoda-alliance-writes-three-political-parties-to-request-2011-election-commitments/ A … Continue reading Comparison of the Major Parties’ 2011 Election Commitments on Disability Accessibility

AODA ALLIANCE HOLDS QUEEN’S PARK NEWS CONFERENCE ON EVE OF ELECTION CAMPAIGN TO UNVEIL THE POLITICAL PARTIES’ PLATFORMS ON DISABILITY ACCESSIBILITY

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org September 2, 2011 SUMMARY The AODA Alliance has received and made public election commitment letters from four major political parties, the Liberals, NDP, Conservatives, and Green Party. We set out links to each of these below, as well as to an issue-by-issue comparison of them. … Continue reading AODA ALLIANCE HOLDS QUEEN’S PARK NEWS CONFERENCE ON EVE OF ELECTION CAMPAIGN TO UNVEIL THE POLITICAL PARTIES’ PLATFORMS ON DISABILITY ACCESSIBILITY

AODA ALLIANCE WRITES THREE POLITICAL PARTIES TO REQUEST 2011 ELECTION COMMITMENTS

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org July 19, 2011 SUMMARY We have just launched the next phase in our campaign for a fully-accessible Ontario. We will raise accessibility issues in the upcoming October 2011 provincial election. We also want to again try to ensure that this election is … Continue reading AODA ALLIANCE WRITES THREE POLITICAL PARTIES TO REQUEST 2011 ELECTION COMMITMENTS

WHEN WILL A BUILT ENVIRONMENT ACCESSIBILITY STANDARD BE ENACTED?

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org July 08, 2011 SUMMARY Now that the Ontario government has enacted the Integrated Accessibility Regulation to address barriers in transportation, employment, and information and communication, our attention turns to the remaining unfinished accessibility standard that has been in the works to date. … Continue reading WHEN WILL A BUILT ENVIRONMENT ACCESSIBILITY STANDARD BE ENACTED?

MAJOR VICTORY FOR ONTARIANS WITH DISABILITIES – MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT ENSHRINES ACESSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS IN ITS NEW 10-YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org July 04, 2011 SUMMARY On June 24, 2011, the McGuinty Government unveiled its 10-Year Infrastructure Plan for Ontario. It lays down the policies and principles that are supposed to govern any of the billions of dollars of infrastructure spending by the provincial … Continue reading MAJOR VICTORY FOR ONTARIANS WITH DISABILITIES – MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT ENSHRINES ACESSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS IN ITS NEW 10-YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN

McGuinty Government Posts Final Proposed Built Environment Accessibility Standard

September 2010 SUMMARY Here you can download the major documents that the McGuinty Government made public in early September, 2010, in connection with the final proposed Built Environment Accessibility Standard that was developed by the Built Environment Standards Development Committee. To download and read the final proposed Built Environment Accessibility Standard in MS Word format, … Continue reading McGuinty Government Posts Final Proposed Built Environment Accessibility Standard

McGuinty government releases initial proposed built environment accessibility standard for public comment

July 24, 2009 SUMMARY On July 14, 2009, the McGuinty Government made public the initial proposed Built Environment Accessibility Standard. This proposal was developed by the Built Environment Standards Development Committee. The Government appointed that Committee under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2005. The public has until October 16, 2009 to send the … Continue reading McGuinty government releases initial proposed built environment accessibility standard for public comment