Dear colleagues,

We are excited to introduce three new initiatives that advance the University’s response to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and increase accessible practices and initiatives across the tri-campus.

As required by the AODA, U of T is developing an updated Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, which will serve as a five-year roadmap as we work to create accessible and inclusive environments where all members of the community can participate fully. The University has engaged a Consultation Committee to ensure that the Plan is informed by the expertise and insights of tri-campus community members with lived experience of disability, academic and administrative leaders, and representatives of University offices and services.

The University has long been committed to meeting the standards of the AODA through the efforts of the AODA Office. The newly created AODA Commitments website outlines institutional progress related to the AODA standards—Information & Communication, Employment, Transportation, Design of Public Spaces, Customer Service, and the General Requirements. Additionally, the site invites members of the University community to participate in education and engagement opportunities to enhance their understanding of accessibility and Universal Design for Learning.

Finally, we are launching the Employees with Disabilities Community Network, a tri-campus affinity group where employees with disabilities, or who identify as disabled, can foster a sense of belonging and connection. This group aims to provide a community of support and opportunities for mentorship and professional development, while contributing to building a culture of belonging across our campuses.

Advancing accessibility is a responsibility that is shared across our tri-campus community. We invite you to learn more about these new initiatives and to share them with your networks.