DEARBORN – Dozens of parents and children gathered on Wednesday, April 2, to recognize National Autism Awareness Day with a ceremony that ended by shining a blue light on City Hall. 

The event was organized by Blue Hands United of Dearborn,  a group of local parents who are aiming to spread awareness on autism, a disability that affects one in 88 children. The newly formed group sought a permit from the city and hopes to turn the event into an annual ceremony, with future participation from local businesses.

One local parent, Yasmeen Hamed, who has an autistic child, brought her family to the event because she says it’s an issue that can sometimes be overlooked.  

“This is great because it’s giving the community awareness. Sometimes people just might not know what’s going on with their children. It’s a great way for the community to become more supportive of families who have children with autism,” Hamed said.  

One local parent, Mariam Aloue , a member of Blue Hands United, took the microphone to remind the crowd that autism doesn’t only affect children who are diagnosed with the disorder, but it can also take a toll on the child’s parents.

“I know firsthand how it feels to want someone to talk to. Someone who understands what you are going through. When my son was first diagnosed, I was so scared. I had heard of autism, but I really didn’t understand what it was. I was an emotional wreck,” Mariam said.  “I wanted to talk to anyone, not only professionals, but other parents who were going through the same thing I was. I even called parents from out of state. With all the research and advise I received from parents, I became stronger. I had to for my children.”

Over a dozen autistic children gathered on the steps of City Hall and released blue balloons as the crowd counted down the lighting of the building. 

Mona Aloue, the founder of the organization, said she was delighted with the turnout at the event. Aloue hopes this will be the first of many upcoming events aimed at targeting the Arab American community. Blue Hands has been in talks with several other nonprofit groups and is aiming to involve Dearborn Public Schools in the initiative. 

“I think the turnout was great. More parents than we expected came. What was great about it was that most of them brought their children with autism out here, and they felt comfortable enough to do so. The environment was very welcoming to them,” Mona said. “We hope this will become an annual event and every year we increase the number of buildings and businesses that are involved.” 

Part of the group’s goal will be to distribute literature that describes warning signs, programs, and opportunities for families who are dealing with autistic children. This summer, Blue Hands is also aiming to hold special events and activities for children with autism. 

To learn more about Blue Hands United of Dearborn, visit the group’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bluehandsunited.