
National AccessAbility Week and Red Shirt Day

National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) is an opportunity to celebrate the valuable contributions of Canadians with disabilities and to recognize the efforts of individuals, communities and workplaces that are actively working to remove barriers to accessibility and inclusion. The week brings Canadians together to celebrate, highlight, and promote inclusion and accessibility for people with disabilities in our schools and broader communities. Inspired by Rick Hansen’s Man in Motion World Tour, it is an important week to recognize how far we have come and reflect on how we can become a better, more inclusive, and more accessible Canada.
The 2026 NAAW takes place from May 31 to June 6. During the week, Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) schools are encouraged to help promote accessibility, inclusion, belonging, and student voice across the school community.
Participation and Engagement Ideas
The activities and resources below are intended to support school participation, classroom learning, and school-wide engagement throughout National AccessAbility Week. Schools may consider opportunities that best support their school community.
Participate in board-wide National AccessAbility Week activities outlined in the TCDSB NAAW 2026 Activities Calendar.
Promote accessibility, inclusion, and belonging through classroom and school-wide activities.
Explore accessibility resources and supports available throughout the week.
Encourage student voice, reflection, and meaningful community engagement.
Share school activities and celebrations using #TCDSB #NAAW2026.
Featured Resources
Red Shirt Day
Red Shirt Day is an Easter Seals initiative and was first celebrated in 2019. The 2026 Red Shirt Day takes place on June 3. Visit the Easter Seals website for more information.
Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) students and staff are encouraged to wear red on Red Shirt Day to promote messages of support for people and families living with disabilities.
The following videos can assist TCDSB students and staff in promoting awareness and inclusivity:
Accessibility for All: ASL Fingerspelling Practice - Created by the staff and students of Dante Alighieri Academy Catholic Secondary School, this video highlights a collaborative fingerspelling challenge, spelling words from A to Z, promoting National AccessAbility Week.
ASL Fingerspelling Practice: Learn to Fingerspell A-Z - Created by the staff and students of Dante Alighieri Academy Catholic Secondary School, this video can assist staff and students in planning a fingerspelling challenge at your school.
Now is your opportunity to teach our youth about disability and inclusion! Together, let’s celebrate diversity and promote accessibility for all.
