Flag raised for World Autism Awareness Day in Brantford's Harmony Square

The weather was chilly, but the feelings were warm as a group gathered in Brantford’s Harmony Square the morning of April 2 for a flag raising to mark World Autism Awareness Day, and the start of World Autism Month.

Coun. Dan McCreary served as the MC for the event. In his opening comments, he shared that this year’s ceremony was particularly meaningful for him and his wife, because they recently found out that “we have a family member who’s going to be benefitting from the services of Lansdowne (Children’s Centre), so we’re part of your community now.”

McCreary noted that the theme for this year’s World Autism Awareness Day is ‘Celebrate Differences,’ which “encourages understanding and acceptance," of people with Autism, while also "promoting the idea that differences are a normal part of life.”

Before reading the proclamation, Town Crier David McKee said, “My bell is silent, tied with a blue ribbon in deference to those with Autism,” as he held the instrument aloft.

“I have a grandson who is very shocked by noises … this is for him, too.”

An ambassador for youth/teens and Lansdowne Children's Centre, Karrvin Misener (18), addressed the crowd in Harmony Square, downtown Brantford. Misener shared his experience as a person with Autism, and the benefit of participating in Teen Group at Lansdowne, a program that helps youth to build social connections.