Programs that ensure that physical spaces (including buildings, parking lots, sidewalks, parks and other areas that are used by the public) are safe and free from obstacles which prevent access by people who have disabilities; that technologies (including software applications and operating systems, Web based information and applications, telecommunications products, video and multimedia products, and commercial products such as information kiosks, calculators and fax machines) have features which support accessibility; and that enhancements which improve accessibility are implemented wherever possible. Compliance is addressed by various aspects of the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Employment Equity Act, in addition to any applicable provincial legislation such as the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

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Programs that attempt to reduce the incidence of intimidation, property crimes and violence against individuals on the basis of their real or perceived race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability through a variety of educational interventions that focus on making people aware of the problem, encouraging people to actively condemn behaviours that promote hate crimes, and helping to develop cultural sensitivity in communities that are experiencing tension or where incidents have already occurred.

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Programs that provide a hotline, website or other mechanisms that the public can use to anonymously report information about the activities of individuals who have planned or committed acts of violence or intimidation against people on the basis of their real or perceived race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. Hate crimes have an impact that lingers, and extends beyond the specific victim. They make members of minority communities fearful, angry and suspicious, and raise tensions that can divide and polarize neighbourhoods, towns and cities.

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Organizations whose members are individuals who work in the disability field and have affiliated for the purpose of promoting mutual interests, participating in education and training conferences, interacting with other professionals and taking advantage of other opportunities for personal and professional development. Many disability associations also include individuals with disabilities and their families in their membership. Disability associations may also advocate for the rights of people with disabilities and their caregivers; promote legislation that funds research and services for this population; and provide information for members and the general public. Included are associations that focus on a specific disability such as autism or brain injuries; and those that address a broad range of disability issues.

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