“Emerging from the Shadows” — National AccessAbility Week Opening Ceremony and Art Exhibition Successfully Held

Organized by NorthStar Special Needs Society in collaboration with York University

Toronto, May 25, 2025 — The Opening Ceremony of the National AccessAbility Week (NAAW), themed “Emerging from the Shadows,” was successfully held today at Pierre Elliott Trudeau High School in Markham. The event was organized by NorthStar Special Needs Society (NSNS) with funding support from the Government of Canada, and in collaboration with York University – Asian Business and Management Program (ABMP). The program centers around inclusion and empowerment for Asian Canadians with disabilities.

The opening event featured keynote speeches, an inclusive art exhibition, a panel discussion, and community engagement activities, drawing participation from professionals across education, healthcare, arts, and social services, alongside parents and the general public.

Dignitaries Deliver Remarks: “Understanding, Inclusion, and a Barrier-Free Society”

The ceremony was honored by the presence of leaders from education, government, and public service, including:

• Ed Law, Trustee, York Region District School Board (YRDSB)

• Ron Lynn, Chair of the Board, YRDSB

• Joe  Lee, Regional Councillor, York Region

• Allan Ho, Regional Councillor, York Region

• Dr. Farah Ahmed, Full Professor, School of Health Policy and Management, York University

• Jeffrey Man, Senior Policy Advisor, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital

• Jessica Zhang, SickKids Foundation

Their speeches emphasized the importance of public awareness, equitable education, and the need for systemic support for people with disabilities. Many highlighted the significance of NAAW as a platform for promoting policy dialogue, inclusion, and social change.

Art Exhibition: Art as a Voice

The ceremony featured the themed community Art Exhibition: “Emerging from the Shadows.” Curated in collaboration with ARTIYI INITIATIVE, GinkGo ArtEdu, and Lydia Art & Music Studio, the exhibition showcased outstanding children artwork. The collection includes works by children with and without disabilities, collectively expressing a shared vision of an inclusive society where people with disabilities are not objects of sympathy, but full rights holders—supported by robust systems that ensure equal access, meaningful opportunities, and the freedom to achieve their fullest potential.

Panel Discussion: Inclusive Education for Asian Canadians with Disabilities

A key highlight of the event was the panel discussion titled “Education and Inclusive Learning for Asian Canadians with Disabilities”, moderated by Elaine Cagulada, a scholar and educator at Queen’s University and the University of Toronto, whose research explores disability, deafness, race, and systemic barriers.

Panelists included:

• Dr. Farah Ahmed, professor, York University

• Fiona Ning Cheuk, PhD Candidate, University of Toronto

• Lisa M. Fernandes, Educator and PhD Student in Educational Leadership & Policy

• Aparna Menon, Parent Advocate and PhD Candidate in Public Health, University of Toronto

• Thanh Thanh, Researcher, Inclusive Early Childhood Service System (IECSS), Toronto Metropolitan University

The discussion explored culturally responsive teaching practices, neurodiversity, communication approaches for non-verbal autistic students, and the intersection of disability and ethnicity. Panelists offered practical recommendations for creating inclusive, affirming educational environments.

A Full Week of Programming – All Are Welcome!

This Opening Ceremony marks the launch of National AccessAbility Week programming running from 25 to 31 May , featuring a rich lineup of:

• Webinars

• Cultural and recreational events

• Community dialogues

• Advocacy initiatives These events aim to:

• Increase awareness and understanding of disability experiences

• Reduce stigma and discrimination

• Empower families and caregivers

• Share best practices with service providers and educators

For full program details and event registration, visit: https://naaw.nsns.ca/#event

The public is warmly invited to attend and participate throughout the week.

Special Thanks

The successful delivery of this event would not have been possible without the generous support and collaboration of many organizations. Our heartfelt thanks to:

• York University – Asian Business and Management Program (ABMP)

• NewStart Nexus

• Joyarts Studio

• ARTIYI INITIATIVE

• GinkGo ArtEdu

• Lydia Art & Music Studio

• Canada Cultural Industry Development Association

• Fujian Sifangzi Technology Development Co., Ltd.

• Share Love Society

About NorthStar Special Needs Society (NSNS)

NorthStar Special Needs Society is a registered Canadian non-profit organization founded by parents of children with autism. NSNS is dedicated to creating inclusive, equitable, and supportive environments for children with special needs and their families through sports, arts, and education.

For media inquiries or interviews, contact: naaw@nsns.ca