AODA and Human Rights Code: Who are people with disabilities at McMaster

Summary

The video discusses accessibility initiatives at McMaster University, focusing on access to education, campus environments, and employment opportunities. It emphasizes that disabilities are not always visible and do not require disclosure for accessibility to be prioritized. Everyone benefits from greater accessibility, and it is a shared responsibility to make it a social priority. The video encourages people to take action by promoting accessibility and provides contact details for further information, including resources on the AODA and Human Rights Code support.

Takeaways

• 🎓 McMaster University prioritizes accessibility in various areas including education, physical environment, and employment.
• 📚 Accessibility efforts focus on educational instruction, course materials, and university digital resources.
• 🏢 The physical environment and services on campus are considered to ensure a barrier-free experience.
• 👥 Social spaces and employment opportunities are also part of the university's accessibility focus.
• 🦽 Disabilities can be visible, like using wheelchairs, or invisible, and the university's approach is inclusive of both.
• 🤝 Individuals do not need to disclose their disabilities for accessibility measures to be implemented.
• 👁️‍🗨️ Greater accessibility benefits everyone, not just those with identified disabilities.
• 🌐 Accessibility is a collective responsibility and everyone has a part to play in promoting it.
• 📧 For more information on promoting accessibility, contact McMaster's accessibility office via email or visit their website.
• 📞 A dedicated phone number is provided for accessibility inquiries.
• 📘 Specific support is available for AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act) and Human Rights Code compliance.

Q & A

What is McMaster University's focus on accessibility?

McMaster University focuses on accessibility in educational instruction, course materials, university websites and media, the physical environment, academic and social spaces, employment opportunities, and workplace environments.

Who are considered people with disabilities at McMaster?

People with disabilities at McMaster include those who use visible assistive devices like wheelchairs, walkers, or canes, as well as those who are blind, visually impaired, or deaf.

Does McMaster require individuals to disclose their disability for accessibility services?

No, McMaster does not require individuals to disclose their disability for accessibility services to be taken seriously.

Why is it important to advance accessibility without knowing who benefits from it?

Advancing accessibility is important because it benefits everyone, not just those with disabilities. It promotes an inclusive environment for all.

What is the role of the community in ensuring accessibility at McMaster?

Everyone at McMaster has a role to play in ensuring accessibility is at the forefront of the social agenda, regardless of who they know to be or think would benefit most from it.

How can one get more information on promoting accessibility at McMaster?

For more information on promoting accessibility, one can visit www.accessibility.mcmaster.ca, email [email protected], or call 905-525-9140 extension 24644.

What support is available for AODA and Human Rights Code courses at McMaster?

Support for AODA and Human Rights Code courses can be obtained by emailing [email protected].

How can someone connect with McMaster for general information on accessibility?

For general information on accessibility, one can connect with McMaster at equity.mcmaster.ca.

What are some examples of visible assistive devices mentioned in the script?

Examples of visible assistive devices include wheelchairs, walkers, and canes.

What does McMaster mean by 'enhanced accessibility'?

Enhanced accessibility refers to improved access to services, facilities, and information for everyone, including those with disabilities.

How does McMaster define disability?

Disability at McMaster is defined broadly, including both visible and non-visible conditions that may affect a person's ability to access and participate in university life.