Light It Up Blue: Shining a Light on Autism This April
This April, the George Gray Centre lit up with colour, connection and community as we took part in Light It Up Blue — a global campaign to raise awareness and promote acceptance during Autism Awareness Month.
It wasn’t just about blue clothes, wild wigs, and sparkly accessories (though we saw some epic efforts across the board). It was about starting conversations, sharing understanding, and standing in solidarity with people with autism and their families.
💙 Why Blue?
The colour blue has become a symbol of autism awareness, first championed by the organisation Autism Speaks. It’s come to represent calm, understanding, and the kind of inclusive world we all want to be part of — one where every person is seen, supported and celebrated.
At GGC, that’s more than just a theme for April — it’s part of our everyday practice.
🧠 So… What Is Autism?
Autism (or Autism Spectrum Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, processes information, and experiences the world around them.
But it’s important to remember:
Autism isn’t an illness or something to be “fixed” — it’s a different way of being.
It’s simply part of a person’s identity, and every person with autism is unique.
That’s why it’s called a spectrum. One person might be highly verbal and independent, while another may use visual supports or alternative communication tools. One person might find large crowds and bright lights overwhelming, while another thrives on movement and sensory exploration.
People with autism may experience:
Differences in communication — using fewer words, speaking in different tones, or communicating through gestures, devices, or scripts.
Differences in social interaction — needing more time to respond, preferring one-on-one connection, or feeling anxious in group settings.
Sensory sensitivities — finding certain sounds, textures, lights, or smells uncomfortable or distressing.
A preference for routine and predictability — which helps create a sense of safety and calm.
Deep interests or “special topics” — which bring joy, focus, and purpose.
But people with autism also bring:
Incredible attention to detail
Creativity, honesty, and original thinking
Strong memory and pattern recognition
Loyalty and unique perspectives
A rich inner world and deep passions
At the George Gray Centre, we focus on strengths, not stereotypes.
We work alongside each person to understand their goals, their communication style, and the kind of support that feels right for them.
🤝 How We Can Be More Supportive
Being inclusive of people with autism isn’t just about awareness — it’s about action. Whether you're a family member, support worker, educator, employer or community member, there are simple things we can all do to help create a more understanding and accessible world.
Here are a few ways to be more supportive:
👂 Listen without assumptions
Don’t assume what someone needs or feels. Ask. Listen. Respect their preferences and communication style — even if it looks different to your own.
💬 Use clear and direct language
Avoid idioms, sarcasm, or vague instructions unless you know someone is comfortable with them. Many people with autism prefer things to be said as they are.
😌 Be mindful of sensory needs
Loud noises, strong smells, flickering lights or unexpected touch can be overwhelming. Small changes — like lowering music, offering quiet spaces, or being patient with transitions — can make a huge difference.
📅 Respect routines and boundaries
Consistency helps many people feel safe and prepared. Give plenty of notice when plans change and be flexible where possible.
🎉 Celebrate strengths and individuality
Everyone has something unique to offer. Focus on what a person brings to the table, not just the support they need.
🌟 Inclusion Is a Daily Practice
At the George Gray Centre, people with autism are supported across a wide range of programs — from Creative Arts to Life Skills, Sport and Recreation to Social and Community Engagement.
We work closely with each person and their support network to build a program that reflects their goals, strengths and sensory needs — with a focus on confidence, connection, and community participation.
We also continue to adapt how we work — providing quiet spaces, flexible routines, visual supports, communication tools and, most importantly, unwavering respect.
💙 What “Lighting It Up Blue” Means to Us
It’s one thing to wear blue for a day. It’s another thing entirely to commit to building a world where neurodiversity is understood, embraced and celebrated — not just accepted.
📚 Want to Learn More or Find Support?
Whether you’re a family member, support coordinator, educator or simply curious — here are some great resources to explore:
🔹 Amaze (Victoria’s autism peak body)
amaze.org.au
Helpful info on autism, inclusive practices, and NDIS navigation.
🔹 Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect)
autismspectrum.org.au
Provides support, assessments, resources and services for people with autism and their families.
🔹 Raising Children Network – Autism Section
🌐 https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism
Evidence-based articles, videos, and tips for parents of children with autism — includes NDIS info, therapy overviews, and everyday strategies.
🔹 Reframing Autism
🌐 https://reframingautism.org.au/
Led by people with lived experience, this organisation provides research, storytelling, training, and advocacy that champions autism acceptance.