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Celebrating Autistic Voices on Autism Acceptance Day

April 2, 2025

Everyone

Dear AutismBC Community,  

As we pause to reflect on World Autism Day and Autism Acceptance Month dawns, we come together—nearly 11,000 members strong—to celebrate who we are and the vibrant, diverse tapestry of our autistic community across British Columbia. At AutismBC, our mission is clear: we empower, support, and connect the autism community across the province. This month, we’re filled with hope as we look forward, united in our vision of a neuro-affirming society where autistic people and their families are seen, heard, and valued for our unique strengths and perspectives.

Our work today is more vital than ever, especially in this political climate. Through active advocacy, we’re ensuring autistic perspectives shape a future that embraces intersectionality—honouring the diverse identities within our community, including women, transgender people, and racialized individuals, whose voices we lift as essential.  We’re strengthening our reach into the Northern and Interior communities and our partnerships to enhance education, equipping our community and allies with knowledge to break down barriers. Wellness is at our heart, as we aim to promote holistic support for mind, body, and spirit. And we’re tackling poverty reduction, advocating for equitable access to resources so every autistic person can flourish.

To our allies, you are our strength. Your willingness to listen, learn, and stand with us fuels this movement toward a neuro-affirming tomorrow. We invite you to deepen that allyship—whether by joining a conversation, sharing our vision, donations support, or extending kindness—because every act of connection lifts us higher.

To our members and autistic community, your voices, knowledge, and experiences light the way. We’re so grateful for you—for the courage you bring to this journey, for the ways you challenge us to grow, and for the hope you inspire. As we move forward, let’s hold space for each other, embracing every step with care and collaboration. Together, we’re not just imagining a better future; we’re building it—one uplifting moment, one intersectional step, one lesson, one act of wellness, and one stride against inequities at a time.

Here’s to an Autism Acceptance Month filled with possibility—and to a community that continues to rise, together.

Warmly,

Suzanne Perreault,

Executive Director


Resources


Suzanne Perreault

Before becoming Executive Director of AutismBC, I worked as a woman’s counsellor focusing on neurodiversity, DEI consultant, TEDx speaker, disabilities advocate, and former School Trustee. I’m also autistic and parent to three autistic young adults, bringing a unique perspective to my work. With over 18 years of community involvement and mentorship, I support neurodivergent families through an anti-oppression lens. I’ve worked with schools and educators on Inclusion and Trauma-Informed Practices, aiming for fair and equitable access to education. My efforts have been recognized with nominations for the Community Impact Award with AutismBC and the Diversity Award from the Fraser Valley Cultural & Diversity Awards.

I am almost as much of an introvert as I am an extrovert. As I mature, I am sure I am more introverted but most people couldn’t “read” that on me.


Further Reading

10 things you might not know about autism

March 31, 2025

These 10 things you might not know about autism can help you understand the autistic community and challenge harmful myths.

10 things you might not know about autistic adults

March 31, 2025

Autistic adults are just as much a part of the community as children, teens, and seniors, but information about us is harder to find.

10 things you might not know about the autism community and acceptance

March 31, 2025

These 10 things you might not know about the autism community and acceptance might surprise you, especially if you’re an allistic ally.