At noon on Tuesday, May 27, members of the Guelph community gathered in front of City Hall to celebrate National AccessAbility Week (NAAW). The event, hosted by the Guelph Barrier Free Committee (GBFC), brought together local leaders, advocates, and residents to champion a more inclusive and accessible city for all.
Kayla Besse served as the event’s MC, setting the tone for an afternoon of reflection, inclusivity, and awareness. The ceremony featured three inspiring speakers, each offering unique perspectives on accessibility in Guelph.
Justin Reesor, Chair of the GBFC, opened the event with a warm welcome, inviting the community to continue supporting inclusivity not only during NAAW but throughout the year.
Mayor Cam Guthrie emphasized that accessibility doesn’t just happen during National AccessAbility Week it’s something we must commit to every day.
Maddy Workman, a passionate committee member, delivered a powerful call to start meaningful conversations about accessibility and people’s needs. Her words underlined the importance of advocacy and awareness in creating lasting change in our city.
Following the speeches, attendees were invited to the flagpole to witness the raising of the NAAW flag. With Mayor Guthrie leading the way, the flag was hoisted as a symbol of Guelph’s ongoing commitment to a barrier free Guelph.
The Guelph Barrier Free Committee thanks all who attended and encourages everyone to continue the conversation, take action, and help build a city where everyone belongs.
