Introduction 

Ontarians with disabilities have the same right to communicate as individuals who are not living with a disability. These rights are protected by the Ontario Human Rights Code.

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) maps out a path for a barrier-free Ontario by 2025 through various standards which are being implemented in a phased-in approach. 

As a public organization, the City of St. Catharines has a responsibility to ensure we communicate clearly, effectively and equitably with all residents. This includes providing, where possible, documents in accessible formats. In cases where this is not possible, for instance a complex blueprint, the City must be able to provide the information in an alternative format.

In 2021, the City is re-designing its website to meet the standards set out in the AODA. As a result, only accessible content will be included on the website. This includes documents that are linked for further information, graphics, and videos. Social media posts will also be accessible.

This module will provide you with guidance on how to create accessible documents, which can be posted on the City's website and shared with individuals who use screen-reading technology and other devices.