Bond University's Centre for Autism Spectrum Disorders (CASD), in partnership with Autism Gold Coast, will ’Light It Up Blue’ this evening, Tuesday 2 April for the second year in a row in recognition of World Autism Awareness day.
CASD will host this annual official lighting ceremony on campus for the Gold Coast community from 5pm this evening, which will see both the Bond University Arch Building and fountain on the lake flooded in blue light.
More than 400 members of the local community are expected to join in the celebrations in recognition of this special day, including children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families, industry professionals, community members, Bond staff and students.
In 2012, Bond University joined more than 3000 iconic buildings and landmarks in over 50 countries on six continents to turn their lights blue in commemoration of World Autism Awareness Day.
CASD Director Professor Vicki Bitsika says the 'Light it Up Blue' campaign is designed to shine a light on autism by raising awareness of the disorder, which is severely lagging in the general community.
"The disorder affects one in 110 Australian children, making it the second most common developmental disability, yet there is very little public awareness," she said.
"We hope that on April 2, community members will wear blue and take the time to attend awareness raising events such as the lighting ceremony at Bond, which will be a positive public step towards valuing individuals with an autism condition.
"We were proud to show our support for autism awareness in 2012 in this tangible way and look forward to lighting up the campus in blue to repeat the experience this year."