THUNDER BAY — Autism can affect anybody and the city of Thunder Bay joined in the Celebrating the Spectrum events organized locally.
The Autism Ontario flag was raised at city hall on Wednesday, World Autism Day.
“Our hope with Celebrate the Spectrum and with this flag raising, is that we reaffirm our commitments to autistic people, and their families to building a more inclusive Ontario,” said Kadesha Graham, events and outreach specialist for Autism Ontario.
The flag rasing was only one of a number of events held in the city. Graham said some of the events Autism Ontario put on in Thunder Bay were full for registration.
“People want to be able to experience things like going to the movies and bowling and they want to do that in a safe environment for their families. By celebrating Celebrate the Spectrum and World Autism Day, our hope is that more organizations will partner with us so that we can continue offering events and expanding what we can offer so that families and individuals have that opportunity,” Graham said.
“It's important that we celebrate . . . World Autism Day and Celebrate the Spectrum so that we can have a more inclusive Ontario for everyone, so that they can experience the things that everyone experiences, barrier free,” said Graham.
There is still a stigma around autism, and is hoping events like the flag raising will help people to be willing to understand.
Autism Ontario is working with Mario’s Bowl for bowling nights, with the City of Thunder Bay for pools and the Cineplex to offer movies. They offer programming including family swims, sensory friendly movies, bowling and more, which can all be found on their website.
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