Building an Inclusive Future
through Collective Action
A National AccessAbility Week 2026 initiative
May 31-June 6, 2026
Join us for a week of events that bring people together through dialogue, learning, and inclusive community participation.
About the Initiative
Building an Inclusive Future through Collective Action is NorthStar Special Needs Society's National AccessAbility Week 2026 initiative.
Through workshops, panel discussions, community conversations, and inclusive arts and sports activities, the initiative brings people together to advance accessibility, challenge stigma, and strengthen disability inclusion.
Programming will be centered in the Greater Toronto Area, with selected sports activities for autistic children also taking place in a small number of other Canadian cities. Key sessions will also be accessible online.
While NorthStar's core work focuses on children with autism and their families, this initiative speaks to broader issues of disability, belonging, and inclusion across Asian-Canadian communities.
Why This Matters
In many Asian-Canadian communities, disability is still too often shaped by silence, misunderstanding, stigma, or shame. Cultural expectations, fear of judgment, language barriers, and limited access to culturally relevant support can make it harder for individuals and families to seek help and participate fully in community life.
This initiative creates space for conversation, learning, and action. Grounded in cultural understanding and community participation, it aims to support more informed dialogue and more inclusive communities.
What We Hope to Achieve
1. Deepen Awareness and Understanding
Broaden understanding of disability experiences in Asian-Canadian communities and encourage more informed, inclusive perspectives.
2. Confront Stigma and Exclusion
Challenge stigma by centering lived experience alongside professional and community insight.
3. Support Families and Caregivers
Offer practical knowledge, encouragement, and connection for families and caregivers.
4. Share Useful Practices
Highlight approaches that can help educators, service providers, and community organizations support inclusion in culturally diverse settings.
5. Encourage Collective Responsibility
Bring families, professionals, community leaders, and partners together around a shared commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
NAAW 2026 Events
This year's programming will include workshops, panel discussions, community conversations, and inclusive arts and sports activities.
Events will be anchored in the Greater Toronto Area and will bring together families, persons with disabilities, educators, service providers, community leaders, researchers, and other stakeholders. Selected sports activities for autistic children will also take place in a small number of other Canadian cities, while online access to key sessions will help connect participants more broadly.
Register to take part in National AccessAbility Week 2026 events.
Register to Participate
Who Should Attend
These events are open to anyone who wants to learn, connect, and contribute to a more inclusive future.
Individuals & Families
- People with disabilities
- Caregivers, parents, and family members
- Students and youth with disabilities
Educators & School Professionals
- Teachers, principals, and school administrators
- Educational support staff
- Post-secondary staff and accessibility service providers
Employers & Workplace Leaders
- Business owners, managers, and HR professionals
- Workplace inclusion advocates
- Employees interested in disability and equity
Health & Social Service Providers
- Therapists, counsellors, and healthcare professionals
- Disability service providers
- Staff from nonprofit and community organizations
Community Builders & Changemakers
- Community leaders and advocates
- Policymakers and government staff
- Anyone interested in disability awareness and inclusion in Asian-Canadian communities
Partners and Supporters
This initiative is made possible through the support and collaboration of organizations committed to accessibility, inclusion, and community well-being.
Project Lead and Organizer
NorthStar Special Needs Society
Serving children with autism and their families through inclusive community programming since 2021.
Funded By
Government of Canada
Accessible Canada - National AccessAbility Week Funding
Social Development Partnerships Program - Disability Component
Key Partner
Asian Business and Management Program (York University)
Supporting the initiative's educational and community engagement dimensions.
Additional Supporting Organization
NewStart Nexus
Providing consultation and project management support to help strengthen nonprofit initiatives and community impact.
Help Spread the Word
Want to share this initiative with your community, network, or audience?
Download our eMedia Kit for ready-to-use outreach materials, including:
- social media graphics
- printable poster
- press release and promotional copy for newsletters, blogs, and community outreach
By sharing this initiative, you help widen the conversation, challenge stigma, and support a more inclusive future.
Download our eMedia Kit with ready-to-use outreach materials.
Download eMedia Kit