Kia ora,

We hope you are well and full of energy! As we gear up for the March to Parliament on Thursday 7 March, we are thrilled to share some exciting updates and opportunities to make our collective voice heard for accessibility in Aotearoa New Zealand.

March to Parliament Details
•    When: Thursday 7 March 12pm – 3pm
•    Where: Departing from Bunny Street or Midland Park, arriving at Parliament at 1pm
•    Who: Supporters of strong accessibility legislation in Aotearoa New Zealand
•    Why: To ensure the Government listens to disabled voices during the Accessibility for New Zealanders Bill review

We are urging the Government to conduct the review of the Accessibility for New Zealanders Bill with a disability lens in adherence to the principle of "nothing about us without us". Comprehensive stakeholder engagement is vital, including people with various access needs, businesses, local councils and organisations. Standards can be the key to unlocking opportunities for businesses wanting to embrace accessibility.

Share the Petition
If you haven't already, please share this petition. Your support is crucial in shaping legislation that truly reflects the needs of our diverse communities. Let's make our voices resonate across the nation!

RSVP for the March - Your Message on a Balloon!
The March to Parliament promises to be a vibrant display of our resilience and tenacity. We're excited to announce the participation of the amazing Katrina Matich, a talented, vision impaired, balloon artist!

Now, we want to know: would you prefer a balloon bracelet, a balloon hat or a balloon baton? Your choice will add to the colourful spectacle of our united cause. Each balloon design will have a white heart balloon attached to it, designed to be written on with a short message of 3-4 words.
To order your balloon, please RSVP with your balloon choice, or contact Isabelle by Thursday 22 February.

Volunteers Needed
To make the March a resounding success, we need your help! Volunteers in Wellington, your support is invaluable. If you can lend a hand, please reach out to Isabelle at icohen@blindlowvision.org.nz by Thursday 22 February.

Let's make a momentous impact together! As Debra Ruh wisely said,

"Accessibility allows us to tap into everyone's potential."

Your enthusiasm and support are instrumental in creating a more accessible and inclusive Aotearoa New Zealand.

Looking forward to marching alongside you!

He rau ringa e oti ai.
Many hands make light work.
 
Ngā mihi nui
 
Juliana Carvalho for the Access Matters Campaign Team