Nominations open for Markham Accessibility Recognition Award

By David Yin, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

The Markham Accessibility Advisory Committee is now accepting nominations for the annual Markham Accessibility Recognition Award, which honours individuals, organizations, and advocates who have made significant contributions to those in our community with disabilities.

Laura Gold, council and committee coordinator at the City of Markham, said that the number of winners varies based on the number and value of submissions. She added that winners may receive a certificate from the mayor and be featured in a community recognition night.

The Markham Accessibility Advisory Committee established the award to provide opportunities for people with disabilities, encourage Markham residents to support this community, and fulfil the objectives of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

“At any point in life, you might be born with a disability, develop a disability, or get into an accident and become disabled overnight,” she said. “So, it’s something that affects all of us, either directly or indirectly.”

Gold explained that disabilities cover a wide range of conditions and come with varying symptoms. For example, disabilities can be visible or invisible, and they can be either permanent or temporary.

She also explained that people with disabilities may face a wide range of barriers based on their conditions, such as physical barriers, communication barriers, technological barriers, or social barriers.

Improving accessibility provides benefits to various groups in the community. For example, Gold notes that adding ramps can help wheelchair users as well as mothers with strollers, the elderly, and other individuals.

To learn more and download the nomination form, head to the awards section at markham.ca/about-the-city-of-markham/city-hall/awards-grants-funding. The nomination deadline is September 8.

Photo: Mayor Frank Scarpitti and former Accessibility Advisory Committee chair Barry Martin pose with Kristen Hayes, a past recipient of Markham’s Accessibility Recognition Award. (City of Markham photo)