Accessibility Championed at Third Annual Fest-for-All

Scores of people gathered Friday at Ridgeview Park in Cottam for the third annual Accessibility Fest-for-All, organized by the Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee. The event brought together dozens of exhibitors and information booths, along with interactive demonstrations focused on inclusion and accessibility.

Attendees could meet the St. John Ambulance Therapy dogs and ponies from the Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association, try Tai Chi and take part in demonstrations with Rose City Riot Basketball, the LaSalle Rowing Club and SueSanity Pound Fitness. Accessibility advocates and representatives of local municipal accessibility advisory committees were also on hand.

“Accessibility isn’t just about accessible spaces and infrastructure, it’s about people,” said Warden Hilden MacDonald. “It’s about ensuring that every resident of Essex County has the chance to participate fully in community life. It’s about bringing people together from all areas of life and working, in concert, toward a common goal.”

MacDonald called the exhibitors and volunteers “accessibility champions” and thanked the Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee for organizing the event. She also recognized the year-round efforts of local accessibility committees and advocates.

“Together, we’re helping build a barrier-free future for Essex County – a place where everyone feels a sense of belonging,” said MacDonald.

Committee Chair Dennis Sanson thanked for their hard work and dedication committee members including Vice Chair Debbie Alexander, Julie Miles, Rachel Jewell, Diana Kirkbride, Sherrie Currie and Essex County Councillor Kimberly DeYong.

“Accessibility is about more than merely removing obstacles – it’s about opening doors, sparking conversations, creating opportunities and building meaningful connections,” said Sanson. “This festival once again provides proof of what we can achieve when people come together in common cause, with open minds and open hearts.”