Kia ora

We are counting down the days to the general election on 19 September. This is a really important time for us as advocates for Accessibility Legislation to reach out to MPs and candidates in our local electorates.

Everyone with access needs - including disabled people, older people, Māori, migrants, people with English as a second language, and those with temporary injuries - must have an equal opportunity to live life without being hindered by barriers to participation.

In the coming weeks, as election season gears up, you might hear of opportunities to meet with MPs and candidates in your electorate through forums and public events.

We urge you to attend these forums and events if you are able. To help prepare and support you, we have resources available online including:

• Candidates Briefing Sheet - 2020 General Election
• Questions for 2020 Election Candidates

If you would like to write to your local MP to request a meeting, we have templates on our website resource page at this link: www.accessalliance.org.nz/resources

In addition, our campaign team are here to support you to get the most out of meeting your MP. Feel free to get in touch.

As a movement, we need to continue to remind our local leaders that accessibility should be at the heart of a thriving nation. We all want to live in a country where everyone belongs and has the same opportunity to take part in and contribute to society.

Please make sure MPs and candidates standing for election in the 2020 New Zealand General Election know why Access Matters to us all.

He ora te Whakapiri (there is strength in unity)

The Access Matters Team