April 2nd is World Autism Day, an annual opportunity for a dedicated conversation about autism spectrum disorder. Autism touches more than 70 million people globally. Approximately 1 in 50 children and youth are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Canada and this number continues to grow.

In 2008, The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day — many countries around the world light up their landmarks blue to help increase understanding and acceptance of people with Autism. In 2012, the Canadian Parliament passed the World Autism Awareness Day Act recognizing April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day.

On this day, let’s come together to increase awareness of autism and end the stigma and discrimination that Autistic individuals often experience. By strengthening inclusion and acceptance, we can create more opportunities for Canadians on the autism spectrum to thrive and reach their full potential