World Autism Day flag raised at town hall

A World Autism Day flag was raised at town hall last Thursday morning.

World Autism Day was observed last week in Amherstburg.

Members of the local chapter of Autism Ontario were at the Amherstburg Municipal Building last Thursday morning along with members of town council. Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb noted last Thursday, April 2, was World Autism Day and the flag raising was done in support of those on the autism spectrum and their families. That included families both in the Amherstburg community and all across Ontario, he said.

The deputy mayor noted Autism Ontario has had 50 years as a leading voice to promote autism awareness. He said their work has led people on the autism spectrum to have a more full life.

Michael Girard, care co-ordinator with Autism Ontario, stated the flag is a “symbol of inclusion and belonging.” He said he has been with Autism Ontario for five years and in the developmental services (DS) sector for 25, and gets excited to promote the cause.

Raising the flag celebrates autism awareness and makes those with autism and their families feel more welcome.

According to www.celebratethespectrum.com, “Celebrate the Spectrum is an opportunity for positive action to provide spaces of support and advocacy for our diverse communities — while learning about autism and how we can all make our communities better and more inclusive places for autistic people.

Like Autism Ontario’s previous campaigns for World Autism Day, Celebrate the Spectrum invites families, schools, communities, and organizations to collectively recognize World Autism Day by celebrating autistic individuals while also highlighting the systemic barriers that need to be addressed to create a more supportive and inclusive Ontario.

The website notes: “Autism Ontario is the province’s largest collective voice representing the autism community, supporting thousands of families across the province through its seven Regions, who provide committed and skilled expertise and guidance to their local communities. We provide information on autism, support autism research, implement programs and services for the autism community, and aim to support and advocate for all children, youth, and adults on the autism spectrum and their families across the province, regardless of race, ethnicity, income, religion, or gender identity.”

World Autism Day flag raised at town hall

By Ron Giofu