Dawson Creek City Council officially proclaimed May 31 to June 6 as National Accessibility Week during its May 25 meeting, joining communities across Canada in recognizing the importance of removing barriers and building a more inclusive society.
The proclamation aligns with the national National AccessAbility Week, which this year carries the theme “Building a Strong, Accessible Canada.” The designation is meant to celebrate progress and spur continued action to include all residents in community life.
“More than one in five Canadians over the age of 15 identifies as having a disability,” according to census figures cited by the city. Dawson Creek is actively working to improve accessibility through its participation in the Northeastern BC Collaborative Accessibility Plan. This regional effort, done in partnership with the Peace River Regional District, the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality, and other nearby communities, aims to meet requirements set out under the provincial Accessible BC Act.
The Accessible BC Act, passed in 2021, requires local governments to establish accessibility committees, create accessibility plans, and provide ways for residents to give feedback on accessibility issues. Dawson Creek’s council, elected in October 2022 and led by Mayor Darcy Dober, has made community accessibility an ongoing focus, with several councillors bringing direct experience to the table. Councillor Gregg Apolonio works as a support worker for individuals with special needs, and Councillor Charlie Parslow serves as Secretary-Treasurer on the board of the Dawson Creek Society for Community Living.
Residents are encouraged to learn more about local accessibility efforts and participate in National Accessibility Week events. Council meetings, where accessibility matters are often discussed, take place at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers at City Hall, located at 10105 12A Street.
