Flag raising, Peace Bridge illuminated for World Autism Day

Brent Jones
March 30, 2025 at 9:13 PM

The Town of Fort Erie will mark World Autism Day with a flag-raising ceremony at town hall on Wednesday at 9 a.m.

The event is part of Autism Ontario’s Celebrate the Spectrum initiative, which aims to foster community support and advocacy for autistic individuals. Autism Ontario representatives are expected to attend, alongside Mayor Wayne Redekop, staff, families, and other dignitaries.

Mayor Wayne Redekop and a representative from Autism Ontario last year at town hall. Credit: Town of Fort Erie | Facebook

“This gathering is one of many happening throughout the province, kicking off Autism Ontario’s ‘Celebrate the Spectrum’ and ‘Fly the Flag’ campaigns,” Autism Ontario said in a news release.

The initiative encourages learning about autism and working towards more inclusive communities.

Similar flag-raising events are scheduled in municipalities across Niagara Region throughout the day, including Welland, Thorold, and St. Catharines.

“We encourage everyone (attending) to embrace the Celebrate the Spectrum campaign’s tie-dye theme, highlighting the beauty of individuality and the unique spirit of every autistic person,” says Autism Ontario on their website.

For more information, visit celebratethespectrum.com.

In previous years, the Peace Bridge has been illuminated in Autism Ontario’s brand colours in recognition of World Autism Day and this year will be no exception.

Public Bridge Authority executive assistant Lynda Dubuc told Fort Erie Radio by email that the bridge “is scheduled to be lit green, blue and red” on Wednesday as part of the Celebrate the Spectrum initiative, but warned that construction work “could obstruct some of the lights.”