Disability Awareness Week

Release

Premier’s Council on Disabilities, Office of the Premier

May 23, 2025

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The Premier’s Council on Disabilities is observing Disability Awareness Week, May 25-31.

The week is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of people with a disability, while renewing the collective commitment to identifying and eliminating barriers that still stand in the way of their full and equal participation in society.

The theme this year is Championing Accessibility, Celebrating Diversity!

Each year, Disability Awareness Week brings attention to the importance of accessibility, inclusion and the ongoing work needed to ensure that every New Brunswicker, regardless of ability, can participate in community life with dignity and autonomy.

“We know how incredibly important it is to remove barriers for people living with disabilities,” said Premier Susan Holt. “As we mark the 38th anniversary of Disability Awareness Week, I want to thank the work of the premier’s council and the tireless advocacy of New Brunswickers as we continue to strive for better and more accessible communities.”

Throughout the week, events will be held across the province to promote awareness and inclusion. Allain said these community-led activities reflect the spirit of collaboration that is essential to advancing disability rights and fostering accessible communities.

The provincial kickoff event for this year’s campaign will be hosted by the Neil Squire Society on May 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 440 York St. in Fredericton.

The annual legislative lunch will take place on May 27 at the Delta Fredericton, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Schools, organizations and businesses are encouraged to take part in the annual Walk and Roll Challenge. Each year, thousands of New Brunswickers walk and roll for 15 minutes to show support for people with a disability.

“Join us in celebrating Disability Awareness Week; a time to honour strength in diversity, amplify every voice, and build a world where inclusion isn’t just a goal, but a way of life,” said acting council chair Nick Taggart. “We have made significant progress in promoting inclusion for persons with a disability, but we still have a long way to go.”

The Premier’s Council on Disabilities urges community leaders, businesses, organizations and individuals to use this week as a catalyst for long-term change, ensuring that accessibility and inclusion remain at the forefront of policy, planning and public life.

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

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