Celebrate Public Service Neurodiversity Week
October 20, 2025 – Defence Stories
Estimated read time – 1:30
The Defence Team Accessibility Office (DTAO) invites you to join hosts Canadian Heritage and Infinity - The Network for Neurodivergent Public Servants, in celebrating the second annual Public Service Neurodiversity Week (PSNW) from October 20 – 24, under the theme, “Many minds, one mission”.
With an estimated 15–20 percent of the global population being neurodivergent, including autistic perso ns, persons living with ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and Tourette’s syndrome, this week celebrates the strengths and contributions of neurodivergent employees across Canada’s federal public service.
Want to participate?
There are several activities being organized throughout the week, including:
- a hybrid kick-off event (virtual and in-person in the NCR);
- a 5 à 7 networking event (NCR);
- and an Infinity after-hours meet up at the Canadian War Museum (NCR).
For more information about the events and how to register, visit the PSNW Schedule on GCwiki.
What to do beyond PSNW?
To stay connected with Infinity, send them an email to receive regular updates on events, resources, and initiatives that support neurodivergent employees across the federal public service.
The Defence Team welcomes feedback on any accessibility barriers encountered in dealing with the Department of National Defence (DND) or Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), as well as feedback on the Defence Team’s accessibility plans and progress reports. You can submit feedback anonymously or with your contact information through the Defence Team Accessibility Feedback and Request Form.
Managers can support neurodivergent public service employees and colleagues with disabilities by encouraging the use of the Government of Canada Workplace Accessibility Passport. The GC Workplace Accessibility Passport helps streamline the accommodation process by allowing employees and their managers to have conversations about barriers faced in the workplace and finding collaborative solutions to address them.
All members of the Defence Team are encouraged to take time to learn about neurodiversity and how everyone can contribute to a more inclusive workplace by supporting their neurodivergent colleagues.