At GoodOnU.ca, accessibility isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a right, a goal, and a promise we take seriously. That’s why we’re sharing a quick look at the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)—a law that’s meant to make Ontario fully accessible by 2025.
But how did it all begin?
🌱 The Roots of Accessibility Advocacy
Before the AODA, people with disabilities in Ontario faced daily barriers—at school, on the job, in stores, and in public life. While the Ontarians with Disabilities Act (ODA) passed in 2001, it lacked enforcement. There were no timelines, no penalties, and little accountability.
This led to growing pressure from families, advocates, and self-advocates who knew change was long overdue.
🏛️ The AODA Becomes Law – 2005
In 2005, the AODA was passed with all-party support. It set out to make Ontario fully accessible by 2025, and applied to all levels of government, businesses (like ours!), schools, transit systems, and community spaces.
It focused on five key areas:
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Customer service
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Employment
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Information and communication
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Transportation
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Public spaces
The law made it clear: accessibility should be built in—not added on.
✊ David Lepofsky’s Role
One of the strongest voices behind the AODA was David Lepofsky, a blind lawyer and disability rights champion. As the chair of the Ontarians with Disabilities Act Committee, he led a decade-long campaign to demand real change. Through advocacy, public education, and legal pressure, Lepofsky helped make sure the AODA had real goals, real timelines, and real responsibilities for all of us—including businesses.
📆 So… How Are We Doing?
Several independent reviews have raised the alarm: Ontario isn’t on track to meet the 2025 deadline. Many organizations are still falling short, and enforcement is limited. Former Lieutenant Governor David Onley called the province’s progress “a crisis.”
That’s why community-led efforts—like our own—matter more than ever.
❤️ GoodOnU’s Commitment
We’re proud to be part of the movement toward equity, accessibility, and inclusion. Whether it’s through disability-positive fashion, inclusive hiring, or accessible events, we’re here to be part of the solution.
As David Lepofsky reminds us:
“Rights without enforcement are not rights at all—they are empty words.”
Let’s keep pushing for a future where accessibility isn’t optional—it’s expected.