(OTTAWA) – Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada (MP, Saanich-Gulf Islands), said: ”Each April 2nd, the international autism community comes together to recognize the UN-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day and World Autism Month.
“Estimates are that one in 68 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), and that the unemployment rate for individuals with ASD is over 80 percent. A National Autism Strategy is desperately needed. The federal government needs to take direct and urgent action to address the crisis for families with ASD individuals. Funding to support the transition from high school years to adult life is woefully lacking, which leaves many families covering massive medical and social support bills.
“I was proud to be in the House of Commons in 2012 when we unanimously passed a motion to create National Autism Awareness Day, a day where we promote awareness and acceptance for ASD. An easy way to show your support for those with autism is to wear blue for the Light It Up Blue campaign.”
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