Every year, starting on the last Sunday in May, Canadians celebrate National AccessAbility Week (NAAW). Founded as ‘National Access Awareness Week’ in 1988 and inspired by Rick Hansen’s Man In Motion World Tour, this week is an opportunity to celebrate Canadians with disabilities and raise awareness of the critical need for accessibility and inclusion for all in our communities and workplaces.
Scroll down to discover how to join the celebrations from May 25th to 31st, 2025.
Virtual Events
In recognition of National AccessAbility Week 2025, #NAAW2025, the Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF) is proud to present a free live webinar as part of our Power of Inclusion series.
The Power of Championing Disability Inclusion
May 26, 2025 10:00 AM PT
Join us as industry leaders from Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Canadian Tire Corporation, and Scotiabank share why prioritizing disability inclusion is critical for promoting innovation, attracting top talent, and creating workplaces where everyone thrives. Our panel will discuss real-world strategies for inclusive hiring, accessibility best practices, and building an equitable workplace culture.
Virtual Events for Youth
Language and topics in these webinars will be geared to students, but the experiences shared are relevant to everybody. People of all ages are welcome to join!
Youth Disability Panel: How to Become a Young Advocate
May 27, 2025 10:00 AM PT
Featuring members of the Rick Hansen Foundation's Youth Leadership Committee. They will inspire students to take positive action towards accessibility and inclusion! Intended for an audience of grade 6 to 12 students.
Are You Ready for Summer?
May 29, 2025 10:00 AM PT
Let's discuss inclusive summer breaks! Our School Program, along with special guests from Easter Seals and CNIB, is hosting this conversation on inclusion and accessibility from the perspectives of individuals with lived experience with physical and cognitive disabilities.
Fly a National AccessAbility Week Flag
We've created a flag which you can use at your school, workplace, event, or online! Download it for free below, and we would love to see how you use it. Tag @rickhansenfdn in any pictures you share on social media, or email us for a chance to be featured in our blog or newsletter.
Join the Conversation
All week long, we’ll be sharing stories, news and exciting announcements about people, organizations and places who are making a difference for people with disabilities. Follow along on our Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram channels to stay in the loop!
Learn more about Universal Design
We've created these free universal design guidelines to help your location become more accessible.
Donate to Build a More Accessible Future
In honour of National AccessAbility Week, make a gift to the Rick Hansen Foundation. It’s time everyone, everywhere is included in society.