Cobourg hosts address by Paralympic medalist for AccessAbility Week
Collin Whitehouse
By Cecilia Nasmith
The Town of Cobourg announces a line-up of virtual events – including a distinguished keynote speaker – to celebrate National AccessAbility Week May 30 to June 5.
The national theme for the week is Disability Inclusion 2021: Leaving No One Behind, with a focus on dealing with the isolation the COVID-19 pandemic has brought to many.
The virtual celebrations are part of the town's commitment to breaking down barriers for people with disabilities, the announcement said.
“Everyone benefits from an economy and society without barriers to inclusion,” Accessibility Co-ordinator Jamie Kramer said.
“We are actively working towards removing barriers to accessibility, and invite residents to join with us in celebrating all those persons with disabilities who enrich our community.”
The town invites you to register for the kick-off event, a free May 31 keynote address by one of Canada's most decorated Paralympic athletes, Benoit Huot. Born with a disability in his right leg known as clubfoot, Benoit started swimming at the age of eight and, in the last two decades, won 20 medals in five Paralympic Games, as well as taking 32 medals in six World Championships as a member of the Canadian National team from 1998 to 2018.
Benoit is passionate about inspiring others to look beyond their own boundaries, and his keynote address begins at 10:30 a.m. You can register in advance on the Town of Cobourg's Accessibility webpage – which is where you can learn more about the other activities planned for that week.
Tuesday – Wheelchair yoga at 10 a.m. and a 6 p.m. movie – Shameless: The Art of Disability.
Wednesday – Social story sharing at 10 a.m. and Town and Community Resource Sharing at 1 p.m. Thursday – A 10 a.m. movie (Alphee of the Stars) and wheelchair yoga at 4 p.m.