Month of May Initiative
During the month of May, groups around the world hold activities and projects to create awareness and to educate about Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). Since ASEQ-EHAQ was founded in 2004, we have organized events every May to educate, advocate, and bring the community together.
A month for education, awareness, and change
Every May, ASEQ-EHAQ dedicates a full month to education and awareness on Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). The initiative centres on May 12 — the international awareness day for MCS — and brings together people living with MCS, families, healthcare professionals, researchers, and decision-makers.
Over the years, the Month of May has featured expert presentations from physicians and researchers dispelling myths about MCS, practical workshops on reducing exposures at home, at work, in the community, and in travel, art exhibitions by artists living with MCS, and landmark moments of public recognition.
These events educate the public, support the community, and press decision-makers for the recognition, accommodation, and services that people with MCS need.
Since ASEQ-EHAQ was founded, events have been organized every May — including conferences in person and online, advocacy, distribution of educational materials, outreach to other groups, and education of decision-makers.
How the community marks the month
Conferences & webinars
Expert presentations, in person and online, from physicians and researchers on the science, diagnosis, and management of MCS.
Advocacy
Reaching out to decision-makers and other groups to build support for recognition, accommodation, and services for people with MCS.
Educational materials
Distribution of pamphlets, fact sheets, and resources that explain MCS and how to create safer, fragrance-free environments.
Art & community events
Exhibitions and creative events by artists living with MCS, sharing lived experience through art.
Outreach & solidarity
Connecting with organizations across Canada and internationally to support the cause and build a larger community.
Public landmarks
Moments of public recognition — including Niagara Falls illuminated yellow and green for MCS awareness on May 12.
The day the world turns yellow and green
May 12 is the international awareness day for Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). Each year, ASEQ-EHAQ marks the day with dedicated events, presentations, and community activities that put MCS in the public eye.
Past editions have honoured the memory of champions of this cause, including Dr. Lynn Marshall, to whom all of the May 2022 events were dedicated.
Niagara Falls illuminated
On May 12, Niagara Falls has been illuminated yellow and green in recognition of MCS awareness — a powerful public symbol that the community is seen.
Join us this May
This year's events
See the current Month of May program, speakers, and registration details.
View May eventsPast conferences & videos
Watch recordings of previous years' presentations and conferences.
Watch videosThe force that drives us
Learn about our passion for this much-required change.
Read our story