Ontario MPPs have voted in support of Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker’s motion to adopt the Dynamic Accessibility Symbol.
The new symbol will be used to represent people with disabilities in a number of cities across Ontario.
The Dynamic Accessibility Symbol shows a person in motion, leaning forward and moving ahead with wheels spinning.
It will replace the current symbol — a static person in a wheelchair — that has been in use for the past 40 years.
The updated design was championed by accessibility advocates in Ontario, including The Forward Movement.
MPP Walker said the re-imaged symbol reflects the active role that people with disabilities can play in society and it re-frames the conversation from disability to ability.
He says it isn't mandatory to convert to the new symbol, but hopes that people will consider adopting the symbol over time.
In addition, more than 70 disability organizations and communities have formally adopted and endorsed the use of the new symbol, including Holland Bloorview Kids Rehab Hospital, Ontario Association of Children’s Rehabilitation Services, March of Dimes, Special Olympics Canada, Easter Seals Canada, Provincial Youth Advocate Irwin Elman, MS Society of Canada, Muscular Dystrophy Canada, MADD, StopGap Foundation, AccessNow, Accessible Media Inc, United Church of Canada, and more.
