WINNIPEG - April 2, 2012 - During the evening hours of Monday, April 2, 2012, City Hall will ‘Light It Up Blue’ in support of World Autism Day. ‘Light It Up Blue’ is a unique global initiative by Autism Speaks to help raise awareness about the growing public health concern that autism poses.
This is the first year that the City of Winnipeg has participated in the Light It Up Blue event, and more than 70,000 governments, individuals and organizations around the globe are expected to participate. Iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Sydney Opera House and Niagara Falls will join City Hall and Light It Up Blue.
“The City of Winnipeg is proud to be part of a worldwide effort to shine a light on autism,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “I’m happy to see City Hall lit up for such a great cause.”
“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported that 1 in 88 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder by age 8, so it’s important to help raise awareness,” said Chief Administrative Officer Phil Sheegl. “Taking part in the worldwide Light It Up Blue campaign is a great way to do that, and show support for people with an autism spectrum disorder, and their families.”
For more information on Light It Up Blue and World Autism Day, please visit: http://www.lightitupblue.org/Markslist/home.do