Hosting public forum

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

The Town of Stratford, in partnership with the P.E.I. Council of People with Disabilities, will recognize the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Dec. 4 by hosting a public forum from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Stratford Town Centre.

Stratford recognizes the importance of ensuring that all residents, regardless of barriers they may face, have full access to their community.

In recognition of this year’s theme, “transformation towards sustainable and resilient society for all”, the event will feature an awareness session and public forum with speakers sharing their experiences of perceptions, disabilities and challenges.

The Town of Stratford has taken many steps over the years to ensure residents have full access to buildings and other public areas, as well as striving to ensure that services meet barrier-free accessibility standards. The town also conducted an area-wide consultation to identify accessibility needs of the community.

Some Stratford residents may have a disability which requires the town, its businesses and others to make adjustments or alterations to accommodate their specific needs,” said Mayor David Dunphy.

“Stratford wants to create an inclusive community where all residents can reach their full potential.”

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was established by the United Nations on Dec. 3, 1992, and has been a global day of reflection and rededication for over 1 billion persons with disabilities living in countries around the world.

“We celebrate this day to draw attention to the many barriers people with disabilities still face as they struggle to experience full participation in the community. We look forward to a time when all people have equal access and can participate in our society regardless of their level of ability” said Marcia Carroll, executive director of the P.E.I. Council of People with Disabilities.

Further details about this event can be found on the Town of Stratford website at www. TownofStratford.ca.