Statement National Disability Employment Awareness Month – October 2025
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month in Canada, a time to recognize the critical contributions that workers with disabilities make every day in our workplaces and communities. The Nova Scotia Federation of Labour stands in solidarity with all workers in calling for equal opportunities, accessibility, and respect on the job.
This month is a reminder that inclusion isn’t just about removing barriers. It’s about changing attitudes and ensuring that every person, regardless of ability, has a fair chance to earn a living, support their family, and participate fully in their community. Workers with disabilities bring valuable experience, skills, and perspectives that strengthen our workplaces and our movement.
Yet too many Nova Scotians with disabilities still face unfair hiring practices, discrimination, and unsafe or inaccessible workplaces. That must change. Unions have always fought to make work fair and safe for everyone, including advocating for better accommodations, accessible workplaces, and effective employment equity programs.
The NSFL continues to push for more vigorous enforcement of accessibility standards, fair wages, and the right to meaningful work for all. We support public policies that ensure accessibility is built into every workplace, public service, and community space, and that provide access for all, rather than being treated as an afterthought. We also recognize that workers with disabilities are often among the lowest paid and least secure, and that must be addressed through collective bargaining and stronger legislation.
Employers also have a role to play. When workplaces are inclusive, everyone benefits: productivity rises, morale improves, and communities thrive. Hiring people with disabilities isn’t charity; it’s common sense and fairness. This October, let’s commit to building workplaces that work for everyone. The Nova Scotia Federation of Labour calls on government, employers, and unions to continue working together to remove barriers, end stigma, and open doors for all workers. Because when every worker can contribute their skills and talents, we all move forward together.
