Today would have been the sixth annual Autism Awareness flag raising event in front of the court house in Bradford West Gwillimbury. But thanks to COVID-19, the event was cancelled.
But that didn't stop Mayor Rob Keffer, Coun. Raj Sandhu and MP Scot Davidson from raising the flag on Sunday morning to honour World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.
"Even though we can't gather in groups to participate in a flag raising, we can still raise the flag and recognize everything that flag represents," said Mayor Keffer.
The three men stood outside in the rain, while Mayor Keffer read the proclamation. all while following the social distancing rules.
WHEREAS: Autism Awareness Day is recognized annually in Canada on April 2 thanks to Senator Jim Munson’s Bill S-206, An Act Respecting World Autism Awareness Day; and
WHEREAS: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects more than 100,000 Ontarians. ASD is now recognized as the most common neurological disorder, affecting 1 in 94 children, as well as their friends, family and community; and
WHEREAS: ASD is a spectrum disorder, which means it not only manifests itself differently in every individual in whom it appears, but its characteristics will change over the life of each individual as well. A child with ASD will become an adult with ASD; and
WHEREAS: Autism Ontario (formerly Autism Society Ontario) is the leading source of information and referral on autism and one of the largest collective voices representing the autism community. Since 1973, Autism Ontario has been providing support, information and opportunities for thousands of families across the province; and
WHEREAS: Autism Ontario is dedicated to increasing public awareness about autism and the day-to-day issues faced by individuals with autism, their families and the professionals with whom they interact. The association and its chapters share common goals of providing information and education, supporting research and advocating for programs and services.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: That His Worship Mayor Rob Keffer and Members of Council proclaim April 2, 2020 as World Autism Awareness Day in the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury.
Bradford resident, Nicole Kim has been organizing the Bradford Autism Awareness Flag Raising event for the past four years and was disappointed to have to cancel the event, but was happy the flag was still raised.
"It meant so much to me, and others in the community," she said.
Typically, the flag raising event draws in dozens of families in the community with local businesses and organizations donating their time and services, as well as prizes for a gift basket raffle.
"Today would have been her (Kim's) big event with lots of people and even though we can’t do it that way right now, I wanted her to see the autism flag flying over the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury," read a Facebook post from Davidson.
"During this crisis it is even more important to support parents and children with autism, community organizations and those who face challenges," he said.
Kim thanked all the local businesses who were set to partake in this year's event. Peter's No Frills planned to donate snacks like chocolate and chips, while Tony Garcia of Poleiro's BBQ had agreed to supply the water and juice. Local baker Bonnie Aguiar of Sweet B's was going to make a cake, and Bradford Party Rentals, Vinyl Obsessed and Pookz Design planned to supply treats and entertainment for the children.
But not all is lost. Kim says all the businesses have agreed to participate and donate to next year's even bigger event.
"I am so touched."
