Welcome to the discussion

I received this notification today. I haven't had the chance to review all the information yet (plus I'm sure to be disappointed so I wanted to delay that for a bit :) But these things were in the works for years so hopefully they contain positive advancements for anyone not a senior. Check it out:

"We are very happy to share with you that the Government of Canada just launched the Framework for Autism in Canada, Canada’s Autism Strategy, and the National Autism Network call for applications."

There's also a new edition of National Autism News. You can read it here.

And this afternoon, an even newer edition of National Autism News announcing the strategy. I've copied it below:

"Dear Members of the Alliance, Colleagues and Friends,

Today marks a significant moment in our collective journey: The Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, tabled Canada’s Framework for Autism in the House of Commons, and the Public Health Agency of Canada released the country’s first National Autism Strategy. You can read the official government release here.

This moment belongs to all of you - Autistic people, families, and the people who love you - who have tirelessly called for recognition and action for decades. 

For the first time, the federal government is committed to ensuring Autistic people and their families are fully included in Canadian society, and their challenges are no longer overlooked. This day represents years of hard work and persistence, a testament to your advocacy, lived experiences, and dedication to creating a better future for all Autistic Canadians and their families.

But while this is a step in the right direction, we know it’s only the beginning. The Strategy provides a high level vision, we must ensure that real, concrete actions follow—actions that bring immediate relief and long-term change for families and autistic individuals across the country. 

Read our media response and blog post which provides more information about the strengths and weaknesses of the Strategy from our perspective. We have also prepared 

a table of the measures and actions from the documents for your quick reference.

We cannot rest until the promises made are transformed into tangible support in your communities, in your homes, and in your daily lives. The government has described this Strategy as one that will evolve over time. That means this isn’t the final destination—it’s a stepping stone toward the future we’ve all been fighting for. 

To all of our members and allies who have been part of this journey, we thank you. Your stories, your resilience, and your voices are the foundation of this movement. It’s your determination that has brought us this far, and it’s your continued effort that will help us realize the full potential of this Strategy. 

Autism Alliance of Canada remains fully committed to working alongside the government, our members, and our allies to strengthen this Strategy and ensure it results in real, lasting change. We will push for accountability, for detailed action plans, and for the resources and support systems that Autistic people and their families need. 

Our work is far from over. We will continue to advocate for a Canada where Autistic people are fully supported, families face fewer barriers, and communities have the tools to thrive. Over the coming days and weeks, we will be sending out more information for you to digest the Strategy, and future opportunities to work together.

Thank you for your dedication, your passion, and your trust in us. We are honoured to continue this journey with you, and we are confident that by standing together, we will make real, lasting change. 

With gratitude and solidarity,

Dr. Jonathan Lai

Executive Director

Autism Alliance of Canada