An awakening for legislative change
This 20th year of my devotion to the arts and 13 years of the Special People Have Dreams mission have brought so many major significant milestones in both my personal life and career.
In April, I performed at Rideau Hall in Ottawa after the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers Ceremony, where I met Governor General Mary Simon. This spring, I was involved with the music in the documentary Ben’s Animals, and in October, I was appointed a Knight of Columbus. I’m deeply proud of the hard work serving Canada with my music through love and charity.
This summer, I had the idea of reconnecting with a friend of mine who is a federal MP in Ottawa. We met at his office on Parliament Hill on June 20 to discuss various cases both past and present plus my recent encounters. He was emotional and suggested I write a document called “Legislative Article Proposal for Special Needs & Mental Health” and send it to members of government. So, I did.
My proposal was divided into five points:
❱ Inclusive Education Must Embrace Individual Learning Styles
❱ Respect Special Needs’ Dreams and Ambitions
❱ Anti-Bullying and Emotional Support
❱ Family Support Services
❱ Increase Housing and Financial Support for Independent Living.
A month later, I received a response stating, “While the federal government provides funding for health care, delivery of ser- vices falls to the provinces and territories. Parliament does not have the authority to implement your proposals, no matter how worthy.”
Though I appreciated they took the time to read it, it’s not enough, and we shouldn’t tolerate less action. I sent my letter to all provincial/territorial ministers for health, education/higher education, families
and social services! I posted my letter on Facebook on August 9, and that was when the national movement began. It caught a lot of attention with over 16,000 views in two months. I received responses from Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador ministers. They were enlightened.
I even received messages from people across Canada thanking me for advocating for them and inspiring them to share their stories and write testimonies to send to their provincial/territorial representatives.
What lifted my heart and brought tears was this statement, “Canada has an advocate for autism.” I’ve said before that it’s not just about talking, it’s about making it happen. I believe anybody can make a change.
During a recent TV interview, I looked into the camera and said, “Families, do not give up.” I want people to live healthy and prosperous lives. If anyone would like to read my letter, go on my Facebook page, write your testimonies and share.
