In Carbonear, many of our beloved community venues are inaccessible to those who rely on wheelchairs or walkers for mobility. This is a personal issue for me because I've witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by friends and family members who have difficulty accessing public spaces due to mobility restrictions. It breaks my heart to see them excluded from activities and events that others freely enjoy, simply because our infrastructure does not accommodate their needs.

Carbonear, like many communities, prides itself on inclusivity and community spirit. Yet, the reality is that numerous buildings, parks, and event spaces remain inaccessible, leaving people with disabilities feeling marginalized. This is not just an inconvenience—it's a violation of their rights to full and equal access.

Statistics from the Government of Canada reveal that approximately 3.8 million Canadians live with a mobility disability. This number represents more than 11% of the population, highlighting the immense need for comprehensive accessibility. Locally, many residents in Carbonear fall within this demographic and rely on assistive devices to navigate their daily lives.

To remedy this, we propose that the local government of Carbonear, along with business and property owners, take immediate and concrete steps to ensure all public spaces are accessible to everyone. This includes installing ramps, widening doorways, and ensuring adequate signage is in place.

Moreover, securing funding and grants from provincial and federal bodies dedicated to accessibility improvements can further assist in this endeavor. By investing in these modifications, Carbonear will set a precedent for surrounding towns, fostering a truly inclusive environment.

Sign this petition to urge our local leaders and community stakeholders to take action. Together, we can ensure that Carbonear becomes a welcoming and accessible town for all residents and visitors, regardless of their mobility needs.