Category: New 2015

For all items under What’s New that are 2015.

The AODA Alliance Writes Economic Development Minister Brad Duguid to Request Important Information Regarding the Wynne Government’s Consultation on its Problematic Proposal to Establish a Private Accessibility certification Process in Ontario –And – The AODA Alliance Goes Radio Silent for the Holidays!

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 5, 2015 SUMMARY 1. Asking the Wynne Government for Important Background on the Deloitte Firm’s Consultation Regarding the Government’s Proposal to Create a Private Accessibility Certification Process On December 5, 2015, the AODA Alliance wrote Economic … Continue reading The AODA Alliance Writes Economic Development Minister Brad Duguid to Request Important Information Regarding the Wynne Government’s Consultation on its Problematic Proposal to Establish a Private Accessibility certification Process in Ontario –And – The AODA Alliance Goes Radio Silent for the Holidays!

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

The AODA Alliance Issues a News Release about Newly-Secured Government Documents that Show the Wynne Government Continues With Paltry Enforcement of Ontario’s Disabilities Act, Despite Three Years of Rampant Private Sector Violations and 1.3 Million Dollars Left Unspent that Could Buy Lots More Enforcement

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 3, 2015 SUMMARY To mark December 3, 2015, the International Day for People with Disabilities, the AODA Alliance has issued a news release. It makes public documents obtained from the Wynne Government showing that it still … Continue reading The AODA Alliance Issues a News Release about Newly-Secured Government Documents that Show the Wynne Government Continues With Paltry Enforcement of Ontario’s Disabilities Act, Despite Three Years of Rampant Private Sector Violations and 1.3 Million Dollars Left Unspent that Could Buy Lots More Enforcement

Should the Wynne Government Create a Private Accessibility Certification Process? – Send Feedback on Our Draft Response Demonstrating Its Serious Problems — Better for the Government to Keep Unkept Promise to Effectively Enforce the AODA

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 25, 2015 SUMMARY 1. Wynne Government Hires the Deloitte Firm to Consult You On November 16, 2015, the Wynne Government announced that it has launched a public consultation on its proposal that the Government create a … Continue reading Should the Wynne Government Create a Private Accessibility Certification Process? – Send Feedback on Our Draft Response Demonstrating Its Serious Problems — Better for the Government to Keep Unkept Promise to Effectively Enforce the AODA

Wynne Government Seeks Public Feedback on Its Proposals to Amend Two Accessibility Standards that Would Do Little for People with Disabilities But would Break an Important Promise to Ontarians with Disabilities – Send the AODA Alliance Your Input on Our Draft Response to the Government’s Proposals by November 27, 2015

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 20, 2015 SUMMARY On November 9, 2015, the Wynne Government made an important and deeply disturbing announcement. It posted online a short and problematic five-page summary of amendments it proposes to make to the 2007 Customer … Continue reading Wynne Government Seeks Public Feedback on Its Proposals to Amend Two Accessibility Standards that Would Do Little for People with Disabilities But would Break an Important Promise to Ontarians with Disabilities – Send the AODA Alliance Your Input on Our Draft Response to the Government’s Proposals by November 27, 2015

Here We Go Again – Premier Kathleen Wynne Promised The Most Open Government In Canada, But Her Economic Development Ministry Asks AODA Alliance Chair to Pay $4,200 To Fully Answer His June 4, 2015 Freedom Of Information Application On The Implementation And Enforcement Of The Accessibility For Ontarians With Disabilities Act – And – Other Accessibility News

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 5, 2015 SUMMARY 1. History Repeats Itself Again in Ontario… Unfortunately! Back on June 4, 2015, AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky had to resort to filing a Freedom of Information application to get comprehensive current information … Continue reading Here We Go Again – Premier Kathleen Wynne Promised The Most Open Government In Canada, But Her Economic Development Ministry Asks AODA Alliance Chair to Pay $4,200 To Fully Answer His June 4, 2015 Freedom Of Information Application On The Implementation And Enforcement Of The Accessibility For Ontarians With Disabilities Act – And – Other Accessibility News

Wynne Government Commendably Announces Targeted AODA Enforcement Blitz on Workplace Barriers Aimed at Large Retail Establishments in Ontario – What Could This Mean for the Campaign to Make Ontario Fully Accessible for 1.8 Million People 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 November 2, 2015 SUMMARY On October 5, 2015, the Wynne Government issued a News Release and Backgrounder announcing a targeted Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) enforcement initiative. We set out the Government’s announcement below. What … Continue reading Wynne Government Commendably Announces Targeted AODA Enforcement Blitz on Workplace Barriers Aimed at Large Retail Establishments in Ontario – What Could This Mean for the Campaign to Make Ontario Fully Accessible for 1.8 Million People with Disabilities?

Barrier-Free Canada Announces Next Steps in Campaign for Canadians with Disabilities Act after Canada Elects A New Federal Government that Promised a National Disability Law

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 20, 2015 Below we set out the latest announcement from Barrier-Free Canada. Barrier-Free Canada/Canada Sans Barrière www.barrierfreecanada.org info@barrierfreecanada.org A Non-Partisan Campaign for a Barrier-Free Canada for All Persons with Disabilities New Canadian Parliament Is Elected with … Continue reading Barrier-Free Canada Announces Next Steps in Campaign for Canadians with Disabilities Act after Canada Elects A New Federal Government that Promised a National Disability Law

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

Federal Liberal party Promises to Introduce Canadians with Disabilities Act – Time for Federal Conservatives and Bloc Quebecois to Make the Same Promise

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 5, 2015 SUMMARY Below we set out a major announcement from Barrier-Free Canada. Barrier-Free Canada/Canada Sans Barrière www.barrierfreecanada.org info@barrierfreecanada.org A Non-Partisan Campaign for a Barrier-Free Canada for All Persons with Disabilities Liberal Party Promises to Introduce … Continue reading Federal Liberal party Promises to Introduce Canadians with Disabilities Act – Time for Federal Conservatives and Bloc Quebecois to Make the Same Promise

Breaking News in the Campaign for a Barrier-Free Canada – Federal NDP Announces It will Support Enactment of the Canadians with Disabilities Act – Will the Liberals, Conservatives and Bloc Quebecois Do So Too?

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 29, 2015 We are pleased to share with you the latest Update from Barrier-Free Canada, set out below. Barrier-Free Canada/Canada Sans Barrière www.barrierfreecanada.org info@barrierfreecanada.org A Non-Partisan Campaign for a Barrier-Free Canada for All Persons with Disabilities … Continue reading Breaking News in the Campaign for a Barrier-Free Canada – Federal NDP Announces It will Support Enactment of the Canadians with Disabilities Act – Will the Liberals, Conservatives and Bloc Quebecois Do So Too?

Use Three Great New Tools in This Federal Election to Support Passage of a Strong Canadians with Disabilities Act: Barrier-Free Canada’s News Release and New One-Page Leaflet, and Motion Before Toronto City Council to Support Passage of the Canadians with Disabilities Act

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 24, 2015 Summary Here’s even more accessibility news for you as the last four weeks are under way, leading to Canada’s October 19, 2015 election. 1. Circulate the New Barrier-Free Canada News Release On September 24, … Continue reading Use Three Great New Tools in This Federal Election to Support Passage of a Strong Canadians with Disabilities Act: Barrier-Free Canada’s News Release and New One-Page Leaflet, and Motion Before Toronto City Council to Support Passage of the Canadians with Disabilities Act

Attend September 29, 2015 Toronto All Candidates’ Debate on Federal Election’s Disability Issues – and – More Media Coverage on Federal and Provincial Disability Accessibility Campaigns – and – AODA Alliance News Release on Tonight’s TTC Accessible Transit Public Forum

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 16, 2015 Summary Here’s another grab bag of recent developments on the disability accessibility front, both federally and provincially. Below you will find: * The announcement of the September 29, 2015 Toronto All Candidates’ Debate on … Continue reading Attend September 29, 2015 Toronto All Candidates’ Debate on Federal Election’s Disability Issues – and – More Media Coverage on Federal and Provincial Disability Accessibility Campaigns – and – AODA Alliance News Release on Tonight’s TTC Accessible Transit Public Forum

Attend the Toronto Transit Commission’s September 16, 2015 Annual Public Forum on Accessible Transit to Recount Accessibility Barriers You Face on TTC – Are Public Transit Authorities across Ontario All Annually Holding these Mandatory Public Forums for Public Transit Riders 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 September 9, 2015 Summary Below we set out TTC’s web announcement of its 2015 Annual Public Forum on Accessible Transit, to be held on the evening of September 16, 2015. We encourage anyone in the Toronto area … Continue reading Attend the Toronto Transit Commission’s September 16, 2015 Annual Public Forum on Accessible Transit to Recount Accessibility Barriers You Face on TTC – Are Public Transit Authorities across Ontario All Annually Holding these Mandatory Public Forums for Public Transit Riders with Disabilities?

Support for the Call for a Canadians with Disabilities Act During this Federal Election is Spreading – Help this Blitz –and – Please Also Make Public Any Disability Accessibility Barriers you Encounter in this Canada Election Campaign

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 4, 2015 Summary Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance Update United for a Barrier-Free Ontario for All People with Disabilities 1. Action Is Spreading in the Non-Partisan Blitz During this Federal Election to win a … Continue reading Support for the Call for a Canadians with Disabilities Act During this Federal Election is Spreading – Help this Blitz –and – Please Also Make Public Any Disability Accessibility Barriers you Encounter in this Canada Election Campaign

In the current Campaign for the Ontario Simcoe North By-Election, Urge New Conservative Leader Patrick Brown to Commit to Support the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2005

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 29, 2015 Summary Even though most are focused on the current federal election in Canada, an Ontario by-election is being held in the Simcoe North riding on September 3, 2015. New Ontario Conservative leader Patrick Brown … Continue reading In the current Campaign for the Ontario Simcoe North By-Election, Urge New Conservative Leader Patrick Brown to Commit to Support the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2005

During this Federal Election, Join the Call for Passage of a Canadians with Disabilities Act – Use and Widely Circulate Barrier-Free Canada’s New Election Action Kit

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 26, 2015 Summary Barrier-Free Canada, our non-partisan partner at the federal level, just made public an excellent new Election Action Kit. We set it out below. It gives you great tips on how to advocate for … Continue reading During this Federal Election, Join the Call for Passage of a Canadians with Disabilities Act – Use and Widely Circulate Barrier-Free Canada’s New Election Action Kit

Toronto Star Runs Guest Column by AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky Reflecting on Toronto 2015 Pan/ParaPan American Games’ Accessibility Issues

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 20, 2015 Summary The August 20, 2015 Toronto Star includes a new guest column by AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky, set out below. This column reflects back on accessibility issues surrounding the Toronto 2015 Pan/ParaPan American … Continue reading Toronto Star Runs Guest Column by AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky Reflecting on Toronto 2015 Pan/ParaPan American Games’ Accessibility Issues

Still More Media Coverage of Toronto 2015 Games Accessibility Issues As the Games Conclude – AODA Alliance Writes the Toronto 2015 Organizing Committee for Specifics on Important Accessibility Issues

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 18, 2015 Summary The amazing 2015 Toronto ParaPan American Games have now wound up. Accessibility issues surrounding them still deserve our attention. Here are some key developments in the Games’ last days. A. More Great Media … Continue reading Still More Media Coverage of Toronto 2015 Games Accessibility Issues As the Games Conclude – AODA Alliance Writes the Toronto 2015 Organizing Committee for Specifics on Important Accessibility Issues

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

The Wave of Action on Disability Accessibility Gradually Spreads Across Canada – But Still Lots To Do to Get All Governments to Take Needed 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 June 29, 2015 Summary What is happening across Canada on the accessibility front for people with disabilities? That is the focus of our last AODA Alliance Update before a summer break. In this Update, we take a … Continue reading The Wave of Action on Disability Accessibility Gradually Spreads Across Canada – But Still Lots To Do to Get All Governments to Take Needed Action

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

AODA Alliance Guest Column in the Toronto Star on the 10th Anniversary of AODA Going into Effect Emphasizes that the Wynne Government Must Do More to Get Ontario on Schedule for Full Accessibility by 2025

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 12, 2015 Summary It was ten years ago tomorrow, on June 13, 2005, that the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act went into effect. To mark this anniversary, a guest column by AODA Alliance chair David … Continue reading AODA Alliance Guest Column in the Toronto Star on the 10th Anniversary of AODA Going into Effect Emphasizes that the Wynne Government Must Do More to Get Ontario on Schedule for Full Accessibility by 2025

AODA Alliance Chair Files New Freedom of Information Application with the Ontario Government Ministry Responsible for Implementing and Enforcing the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

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 9, 2015 Summary Now that the Ontario Government has announced its June 3, 2015 Accessibility Action Plan in response to the final report of the Mayo Moran AODA Independent Review, should we sit back and rest? … Continue reading AODA Alliance Chair Files New Freedom of Information Application with the Ontario Government Ministry Responsible for Implementing and Enforcing the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

More and More Media Coverage of Our Accessibility Campaign During National Access Awareness Week — and — Further Reflections on the Government’s June 3, 2015 Accessibility Action Plan

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 6, 2015 Summary What a National Access Awareness Week we’ve had! 1. A Barrage of Great Media Coverage of Disability Accessibility Issues We Could Not Have Expected! Over this past week, we were covered in the … Continue reading More and More Media Coverage of Our Accessibility Campaign During National Access Awareness Week — and — Further Reflections on the Government’s June 3, 2015 Accessibility Action Plan

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 Government Announces Measures to Implement Recommendations of 2014 Moran AODA Independent Review – Government Commits to Some Helpful Measures Including Increased Enforcement, But Much More Is Still Needed

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 On June 3, 2015, the Ontario Government’s minister with lead responsibility for the AODA’s implementation and enforcement, Economic Development Minister Brad Duguid, announced a series of measures to respond to parts of the … Continue reading Ontario Government Announces Measures to Implement Recommendations of 2014 Moran AODA Independent Review – Government Commits to Some Helpful Measures Including Increased Enforcement, But Much More Is Still Needed

How the Ontario Government Should Mark the 10th Anniversary of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act — and – Watch AMI-TV’s “Canada in Perspective” on Sunday, May 31, 2015, or Afterward Online, Addressing Barriers to Accessible Public Transit

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 29, 2015 Summary Below you will find helpful news on: what we urge the Ontario Government to do as it conducts its celebrations of the 10th anniversary of the enactment of the Accessibility for Ontarians with … Continue reading How the Ontario Government Should Mark the 10th Anniversary of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act — and – Watch AMI-TV’s “Canada in Perspective” on Sunday, May 31, 2015, or Afterward Online, Addressing Barriers to Accessible Public Transit

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

Please Support Barrier-Free Canada –A New Disability Coalition that Advocates for a nation-wide Canadians with Disabilities Act – And – More News on the Ontario Accessibility Front

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 21, 2015 Summary 1. Introducing You to Barrier-Free Canada – why Not Get in Touch? Ever since the movement began over 20 years ago for an Ontario accessibility law, we have been asked over and over: … Continue reading Please Support Barrier-Free Canada –A New Disability Coalition that Advocates for a nation-wide Canadians with Disabilities Act – And – More News on the Ontario Accessibility Front

In the Wake of the AODA’s 10th Anniversary, Accessibility Comes up in the Legislature’s Question Period, in the 2015 Ontario Budget and in More Recent Media Coverage – The Wynne Government Claims Ontario is “Number One” in the World in Taking Action on Accessibility, Yet the Moran AODA Independent Review Says this Law Hasn’t Had a Significant Impact on People 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 May 15, 2015 Summary In the wake of the 10th anniversary of the historic vote when the Ontario Legislature passed the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, here’s a recap of recent developments in our ongoing campaign … Continue reading In the Wake of the AODA’s 10th Anniversary, Accessibility Comes up in the Legislature’s Question Period, in the 2015 Ontario Budget and in More Recent Media Coverage – The Wynne Government Claims Ontario is “Number One” in the World in Taking Action on Accessibility, Yet the Moran AODA Independent Review Says this Law Hasn’t Had a Significant Impact on People with Disabilities

Honouring the Memory of Barb Turnbull – A Champion for Accessibility for People 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 May 13, 2015 Summary We today honour the memory of Toronto journalist, and disability accessibility advocate extraordinaire, Barb Turnbull. She died far too young, at the age of 50, on Sunday May 10, 2015. She exemplified how … Continue reading Honouring the Memory of Barb Turnbull – A Champion for Accessibility for People with Disabilities

AODA Alliance Marks Tenth Anniversary of the Legislature’s Historic Unanimous Passage of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act by Issuing a News Release and Official Statement Calling for the Government to Release a Detailed Plan to Ensure Ontario Reaches Full Accessibility by 2025

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 8, 2015 Summary Two key dates approach. Each marks ten years since the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) was passed. Sunday, May 10, 2015 marks ten years since the day when the Ontario Legislature … Continue reading AODA Alliance Marks Tenth Anniversary of the Legislature’s Historic Unanimous Passage of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act by Issuing a News Release and Official Statement Calling for the Government to Release a Detailed Plan to Ensure Ontario Reaches Full Accessibility by 2025

Part 2 of the AODA Alliance’s Detailed Analysis of the Final Report of the Mayo Moran Independent Review of the Implementation and Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act – Major Recommendations in the Moran Report that We Do Not Support

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 1, 2015 Part 2: Major Findings and Recommendations in the Moran Report that We Do Not Support OVERVIEW AND SUMMARY In September 2013, the Ontario Government appointed Professor Mayo Moran to conduct a mandatory Independent Review … Continue reading Part 2 of the AODA Alliance’s Detailed Analysis of the Final Report of the Mayo Moran Independent Review of the Implementation and Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act – Major Recommendations in the Moran Report that We Do Not Support

Part 1 of the AODA Alliance’s Detailed Analysis of the Final Report of the Mayo Moran Independent Review of the Implementation and Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act — Major Findings and Recommendations in the Moran Report that We Support

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 29, 2015 Part 1: Major Findings and Recommendations in the Moran Report that We Support OVERVIEW AND SUMMARY In September, 2013, the Ontario Government appointed Professor Mayo Moran to conduct an Independent Review of its implementation … Continue reading Part 1 of the AODA Alliance’s Detailed Analysis of the Final Report of the Mayo Moran Independent Review of the Implementation and Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act — Major Findings and Recommendations in the Moran Report that We Support

Yet More Superb Media Coverage of the Need for the Wynne Government to Strengthen Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and of the Accessibility Barriers that Persist in the Lead-Up to 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 April 10, 2015 Summary Fully five months ago, the final report of the Mayo Moran Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Independent Review told the Wynne Government that ten years of its implementing the AODA has … Continue reading Yet More Superb Media Coverage of the Need for the Wynne Government to Strengthen Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and of the Accessibility Barriers that Persist in the Lead-Up to the 2015 Toronto Pan/ParaPan American 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

Amazing Media Coverage of More Toronto Restaurants Refusing Blind Customers with Guide Dogs Shows Toronto Is Not Ready to Host 2015 Pan/ParaPan American Games – Wynne Government Still Won’t Strengthen, Not Weaken, Enforcement of Disabilities Act Even Though 2015 Toronto Games Are Fast Approaching

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 27, 2015 Summary Over the past two weeks, Global TV’s Toronto evening news has run an amazing series of seven reports by reporter Christina Stevens, on the subject of disability accessibility. Below, we set out the … Continue reading Amazing Media Coverage of More Toronto Restaurants Refusing Blind Customers with Guide Dogs Shows Toronto Is Not Ready to Host 2015 Pan/ParaPan American Games – Wynne Government Still Won’t Strengthen, Not Weaken, Enforcement of Disabilities Act Even Though 2015 Toronto Games Are Fast Approaching

Call the New Ontario Government Toll-Free Line to Report AODA Violations – We Campaigned Over Two Years to Win This Toll-Free Number!

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 23, 2015 Summary The Ontario Government only has 9 years, 10 months and 8 days left to lead Ontario to become fully accessible to 1.8 million Ontarians with disabilities by 2025, as the Accessibility for Ontarians … Continue reading Call the New Ontario Government Toll-Free Line to Report AODA Violations – We Campaigned Over Two Years to Win This Toll-Free Number!

Still More Great Media Coverage and NDP Critic’s Response Against Ontario Government Plans to Cut Back on Already-Inadequate AODA Enforcement – and – Our Response to More Government Comments in Defence of Its Stance on AODA Enforcement

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 9, 2015 Summary The Ontario Government only has 9 years, 10 months and 22 days left to lead Ontario to become fully accessible to 1.8 million Ontarians with disabilities. Our campaign to get Ontario back on … Continue reading Still More Great Media Coverage and NDP Critic’s Response Against Ontario Government Plans to Cut Back on Already-Inadequate AODA Enforcement – and – Our Response to More Government Comments in Defence of Its Stance on AODA Enforcement

12th Newspaper Editorial since 1998 Backs Our Accessibility Campaign –Toronto Star Publishes New Editorial Blasting the Ontario Government for Cutting Back on AODA Enforcement – and – AODA Alliance’s Reaction to Economic Development Minister’s February 26, 2015 Interview on CBC Toronto Radio’s Metro Morning Program

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 2, 2015 Summary With only 9 years, 10 months and 29 days left for the Government to lead Ontario to become fully accessible by 2025, we bring you the latest news. On February 28, 2015, the … Continue reading 12th Newspaper Editorial since 1998 Backs Our Accessibility Campaign –Toronto Star Publishes New Editorial Blasting the Ontario Government for Cutting Back on AODA Enforcement – and – AODA Alliance’s Reaction to Economic Development Minister’s February 26, 2015 Interview on CBC Toronto Radio’s Metro Morning Program

AODA Alliance Asks Candidates for Leadership of the Ontario Progressive Conservative Party to Make Commitments on 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 February 23, 2015 Summary 1. AODA Alliance Writes Each Candidate for Leadership of the Ontario Progressive Conservative Party On February 22, 2015, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance wrote the three candidates now running for … Continue reading AODA Alliance Asks Candidates for Leadership of the Ontario Progressive Conservative Party to Make Commitments on Disability Accessibility

Despite Mayo Moran Independent Review Report Recommending that Ontario Should Beef Up Enforcement, the Wynne Government Plans to Cut Back on Enforcement of Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, Even Though Violations of this Law Remain Rampant Among Private Sector Organizations with At Least Twenty Employees – and – Wynne Government at Last Has a Toll-Free Phone Number the Public Can Call to Report AODA Violations – But You would not Know that from the Government’s Website, or from the Audio Announcement When You Call that Number

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 25, 2015 Summary With only 9 years, 10 months and 3 days left for the Government to lead Ontario to become fully accessible for people with disabilities by 2025, the Ontario Government has taken the backwards … Continue reading Despite Mayo Moran Independent Review Report Recommending that Ontario Should Beef Up Enforcement, the Wynne Government Plans to Cut Back on Enforcement of Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, Even Though Violations of this Law Remain Rampant Among Private Sector Organizations with At Least Twenty Employees – and – Wynne Government at Last Has a Toll-Free Phone Number the Public Can Call to Report AODA Violations – But You would not Know that from the Government’s Website, or from the Audio Announcement When You Call that Number

Send Your Member of the Ontario Legislature the Great Media Coverage of the Final Report of Mayo Moran’s Independent Review of the Implementation and Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

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 17, 2015 Summary 1. Great New Media Coverage on the Need for Premier Wynne to Show Strong New Leadership on Disability Accessibility Here’s yet another quick and easy way you can help our grassroots blitz to … Continue reading Send Your Member of the Ontario Legislature the Great Media Coverage of the Final Report of Mayo Moran’s Independent Review of the Implementation and Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

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

News Release Government-Commissioned Independent Report Shows Serious Problems with Ontario Government’s Implementation of Disabilities Accessibility Law – Report Calls for Premier Wynne to Now Directly Take Charge and Show Strong New Leadership to Ensure 1.8 Million Ontarians with Disabilities Reach Full Accessibility By 2025

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance NEWS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 13, 2015 Toronto: Premier Kathleen Wynne’s Government must take bold new action now, to lead the province to become fully accessible to over 1.8 million Ontarians with disabilities, if Ontario is to become fully accessible by 2025, according to the detailed … Continue reading News Release Government-Commissioned Independent Report Shows Serious Problems with Ontario Government’s Implementation of Disabilities Accessibility Law – Report Calls for Premier Wynne to Now Directly Take Charge and Show Strong New Leadership to Ensure 1.8 Million Ontarians with Disabilities Reach Full Accessibility By 2025

Watch The Agenda With Steve Paikin Tonight on TV Ontario, Featuring Interview with Former Ontario Lieutenant Governor David Onley and AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky – and – Great Recent News Articles on Disability Barriers Show How You Can Help Us Get More Media Coverage of The Campaign to Make Ontario Fully Accessible

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 2, 2015 Summary 1. Catch Great Coverage Tonight on the Fight to Make Ontario Barrier-free for Ontarians with Disabilities on TVOntario Tonight at 8 and 11 pm, Ontario’s highly-influential provincial public affairs program, TVOntario’s “The Agenda … Continue reading Watch The Agenda With Steve Paikin Tonight on TV Ontario, Featuring Interview with Former Ontario Lieutenant Governor David Onley and AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky – and – Great Recent News Articles on Disability Barriers Show How You Can Help Us Get More Media Coverage of The Campaign to Make Ontario Fully Accessible

Please Use and Widely Circulate the AODA Alliance’s New Action Kit Which We Unveil Today – and – Watch Former Ontario Lieutenant Governor David Onley and AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky Interviewed Together on TVOntario’s “The Agenda with Steve Paikin” Monday February 2, 2015

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 30, 2015 Summary 1. Our New Action Kit is Ready for You! Today we unveil an important new ten-page Action Kit, set out below. It gives you easy-to-use tips on how to reach out to your … Continue reading Please Use and Widely Circulate the AODA Alliance’s New Action Kit Which We Unveil Today – and – Watch Former Ontario Lieutenant Governor David Onley and AODA Alliance Chair David Lepofsky Interviewed Together on TVOntario’s “The Agenda with Steve Paikin” Monday February 2, 2015

Contact Information for Members of the Ontario Legislature as of January 20, 2015

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario Note: Please check the Ontario Legislature’s website for any changes to this list since January 20, 2015 Laura Albanese York South–Weston lalbanese.mpp@liberal.ola.org Ministry Ministry of Finance 7th Floor, Frost Building South 7 Queen’s Park Crescent Toronto, Ontario … Continue reading Contact Information for Members of the Ontario Legislature as of January 20, 2015

Watch Captioned Videos of Last Fall’s Queen’s Park Celebration of the 20th Anniversary of Ontario’s Grassroots Campaign for Strong Accessibility Legislation and AODA Alliance Presses the Wynne Government for Current, Detailed Information on Its Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

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 22, 2015 Summary 1. If You Couldn’t Attend the November 28, 2014 Queen’s Park Celebration of Our Accessibility Campaign’s 20th Anniversary, You Can Now Enjoy Captioned Videos of it On YouTube On Friday, November 28, 2014, … Continue reading Watch Captioned Videos of Last Fall’s Queen’s Park Celebration of the 20th Anniversary of Ontario’s Grassroots Campaign for Strong Accessibility Legislation and AODA Alliance Presses the Wynne Government for Current, Detailed Information on Its Enforcement of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

Premier Wynne and Economic Develop Minister Duguid Respond to AODA Alliance’s Detail Proposals to Get Ontario Back on Schedule for Full Disability Accessibility by 2025 – But the Government’s Responses Largely Trumpet Insufficient Past Government Action Instead of Adopting Our Action Recommendations – There’s No Government Plan in Effect that Will Ensure Full Accessibility By 2025 and fulfill the Government’s Unkept Accessibility Promises

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 20, 2015 Summary Only 9 years and 345 days remain before January 1, 2025. The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act AODA requires the Ontario Government to have led Ontario to become fully accessible to people … Continue reading Premier Wynne and Economic Develop Minister Duguid Respond to AODA Alliance’s Detail Proposals to Get Ontario Back on Schedule for Full Disability Accessibility by 2025 – But the Government’s Responses Largely Trumpet Insufficient Past Government Action Instead of Adopting Our Action Recommendations – There’s No Government Plan in Effect that Will Ensure Full Accessibility By 2025 and fulfill the Government’s Unkept Accessibility Promises

Read Premier Kathleen Wynne’s December 23, 2014 Letter to the AODA Alliance

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario Note: Premier Wynne’s letter, set out below, answers the AODA Alliance’s September 19, 2014 letter to her, and its summer 2014 letters to ten of her cabinet ministers. Those AODA Alliance letters can all be found at … Continue reading Read Premier Kathleen Wynne’s December 23, 2014 Letter to the AODA Alliance

Read Economic Development Minister Brad Duguid’s December 8, 2014 Letter to the AODA Alliance.

Sign Up for AODA Alliance Updates by writing: aodafeedback@gmail.com Learn more at: www.www.aodaalliance.org United for a Barrier-Free Ontario Note: Minister Duguid indicates that he is responding to the AODA Alliance’s May 2, 2014 letter to his predecessor, Economic Development Minister Eric Hoskins. To read the AODA Alliance’s May 2, 2014 letter to former Economic Development … Continue reading Read Economic Development Minister Brad Duguid’s December 8, 2014 Letter to the AODA Alliance.