New TOTA Video captures Accessibility in a New Light

We are very proud to be releasing our newest Video "Accessibility in a New Light," this 2020 BC Day long weekend.

For several years, TOTA has been working closely with Spinal Cord Injury BC and Access BC to bring information and attention to the importance of "Access for All." We are honored and proud to have 3-time Paralympic Gold Medalist Sonja Gaudet to guide our work as our Accessibility Specialist. In more recent months, we have signed formal partnerships with CRIS Adaptive, Kootenay Adaptive Sports Association, Access Revolution, and Travel for All, with a goal to build inclusive and accessible tourism experiences in the Thompson Okanagan region.

As you watch this video and listen to the heartfelt comments, it is my hope that what you take with you is the importance of creating region-wide experiences that everyone can enjoy. Each of us has varying levels of ability, whether aspiring athletes, small children, aging seniors, or gold medal contenders. Whether we have a child in a stroller, use a walker, a cane, or a wheelchair, we all have a need that must be met so that we can fully take part in all aspects of life and engage with everyone around us.

We need to learn to appreciate that all that we are, and all that we have, is fragile and can quickly, and without notice, be altered. Abilities should not define opportunities, nor should they prevent any one of us from having the chance to participate and enjoy.

The tourism industry can help make a difference by thoughtfully working to create accessible experiences. To build hotels, restaurants, outdoor adventures, transportation, and so much more, designed to make it easy for those with ability challenges to take part.

The quote that I take away from this video is from Shelley Buchanan Gilmore, who so accurately notes: "We need to stop labeling how we are different and start to create a system where we are all the same."

I hope you will take time to watch this new video, share it with others, and think about how your business might make small changes to be more welcoming to all persons, regardless of ability.

Learn More About TOTA's Accessible Tourism Program

Happy BC Day Long Weekend, Be Safe, Be Healthy, and above all Be Kind.

- Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO