Honourable senators, I rise today in recognition of Autism Awareness Month — a moment each year when we pause to reflect on the experiences of autistic Canadians, the realities that their families and caregivers face and the responsibilities we carry as legislators to support a more inclusive and responsive society.

For many in this chamber and across the country, this conversation is not new. It is part of an ongoing effort that has been shaped by years of advocacy, by community-driven work and by listening closely to those living this reality every day.

Allow me to start with this, colleagues: Autism is not a deficit. It is not a burden. It is part of the full range of human diversity: complex, nuanced and often misunderstood. Across this country, neurodivergent Canadians are contributing in ways that our institutions and our public discourse are only beginning to appreciate.

I was reminded of that recently during a conversation I had with a young man named Drew who very kindly invited me onto his podcast. His thoughtful questions challenged me to listen more deeply. Once again, it was a reminder that neurodivergent Canadians are creators, thinkers and innovators. They see the world differently, and that difference is not just valuable; it is essential.

Of course, this is rarely a solo achievement. Many of these individuals are given the chance to flourish thanks to the tireless efforts of families, caregivers, educators and advocates — most of whom never sought recognition, only fairness. They shoulder extraordinary demands, often with inadequate support, and they do so with incredible dignity.

In my hometown of Montreal, I’ve had the privilege of seeing first-hand the remarkable work of Giant Steps, an organization that nurtures the talents of autistic individuals and demonstrates the power of tailored support.

Colleagues, in this chamber, we have a duty to do more than just admire their efforts. We must meet them with resolve.

In 2023, Parliament passed Bill S-203 — a bill I was proud to introduce — which received Royal Assent with unanimous support from both houses. That bill called for the creation of the national Framework for Autism in Canada, a practical road map to address gaps in diagnosis, education, employment and long-term care for autistic Canadians. It’s nothing controversial. It’s just common sense. And many senators in this chamber, including Senator Boehm and many more, helped craft it and put it together.

Shamefully, over two years later, the government has failed to deliver on its basic obligation of implementation. You’ll agree with me, colleagues, that a framework that sits on a shelf is not a framework; it’s a broken promise.

Autistic Canadians and their families don’t need more consultations. They don’t need more vague commitments. They need leadership. They need access to services regardless of where they live in this country. They need recognition that inclusion is not a box to be ticked — it is a standard to be upheld.

This October, as we recognize Autism Awareness Month, I urge the Carney government to do what its predecessor failed to do, which is to move forward beyond symbolic gestures. Let us honour neurodivergent Canadians not only in our words but also in our policy. Let’s do the work we said we would do.

Because awareness is the beginning. Action is the measure.

Thank you, colleagues.