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Light up for Hope — AutismBC’s 50th Anniversary

January 6, 2025

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Celebrating 50 Years of AutismBC with Illuminated Landmarks 

BC landmarks will shine teal this January to honour AutismBC’s 50th anniversary 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 8, 2025 

Contact:
Suzanne Perreault, Executive Director, [email protected]

Vancouver, BC — Iconic landmarks across Vancouver and Victoria will light up teal this January to mark AutismBC’s 50th anniversary, a milestone in supporting the autism community. 

For 50 years, AutismBC has delivered programs that foster acceptance and create opportunities for autistic individuals to feel valued and empowered to be themselves. In 2024, we connected with more autistic individuals of all ages and their families than ever before: 

  • Our membership has grown to over 10,000. 
  • We hosted 17 workshops, including What is Autism and Waiting for Assessment, with 719 participants. 
  • Our AutismBC Goes and Meets events totalled 167, with 4052 participants.  
  • Our 11 Autism Talks saw 1066 participants, making 99% of attendees feel more empowered and supported.

The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Science World, BC Place, the Vancouver Convention Centre, Vancouver City Hall and Burrard Bridge will be illuminated in teal — the colour representing AutismBC. These glowing tributes aim to spark curiosity and inspire passers-by to learn more about AutismBC’s work and impact.  

After years of advocacy work and relationship-building, we’re thrilled to see the Legislature lit up in our colour. 

“We’re excited to see these buildings light up in celebration of AutismBC’s 50th anniversary,” says Suzanne Perreault, Executive Director of AutismBC. “This display commemorates five decades of incredible work and highlights the importance of raising awareness and fostering acceptance for BC’s autism community. Join us in honouring this milestone and becoming part of the movement for neurodiversity and autism acceptance.”
 
“We also want to express our gratitude to our valued partners, such as BMO and Applewood Motors, whose generous financial support enables us to reach this 50-year milestone and continue our mission.” Says Perreault.

Fifty years ago, parents of autistic children in BC faced an overwhelming lack of resources, connection, and support. AutismBC was created to meet this need, and today, we’ve grown into a diverse, autistic-led organization supporting people of all ages across the province. 

Since its founding, AutismBC has evolved to reflect the changing needs of the autism community. Our programs now serve not only families but also autistic individuals, allies, and anyone seeking knowledge and understanding. What remains unchanged is our commitment to fostering awareness, inclusion, and empowerment. 

To celebrate this milestone with us, visit: 

  • When: Thursday, Jan. 9, 2024, morning until midnight 
  • Where: Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Science World, BC Place, the Vancouver Convention Centre, Vancouver City Hall, and Burrard Bridge.
  • What: A city-wide lighting event in teal to celebrate 50 years of AutismBC 

We encourage the public to visit these landmarks, snap photos, and show their support by sharing on social media and to enter our giveaway. Use the hashtag #50yearsofignitinghope to join the conversation. 

For more information about AutismBC or to get involved, visit our website at www.autismbc.ca or contact Suzanne Perreault, Executive Director.

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