Vancouver, B.C. - The Vancouver Canucks and Canucks Autism Network (CAN) are proud to host our 5th annual Autism Acceptance Night at Rogers Arena during the Canucks vs San Jose Sharks game on November 20, 2023. The game will be a celebration of inclusion and acceptance, featuring voices from the CAN community.
“Canucks Sports & Entertainment is proud to support a cause that holds a special place in the hearts of our CSE family,” said Michael Doyle, President, Canucks Sports & Entertainment, Business Operations. “CAN has continuously provided life-changing programs for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, while working tirelessly to promote inclusion in our community through training and engagement initiatives.”
Autism Acceptance Night highlights include:
- Miriah Reitmeir, local professional singer on the autism spectrum, to perform the Canadian national anthem
- Ryan Chilton, CAN participant on the autism spectrum, will assist Al Murdoch with in-game announcing
- CAN Dad & Supporter, Shawn Saran, recognized as Community Hero
- CAN hockey players joining the starting lineup on the ice
- CAN in Community Corner (section 111)
Rogers Arena is proud to be recognized as an Autism Accessible Facility, dedicated to supporting, welcoming, and including fans on the autism spectrum. Our commitment is to cultivate an inclusive atmosphere for all attendees, ensuring a positive game experience for all. In collaboration with CAN, we offer in-game accessibility services and resources to consistently support our fans. These resources include CAN Sensory Kits, featuring noise-cancelling earphones, a sensory toy, a visual walkthrough, an arena map, and a game-night timeline. Additionally, for those seeking respite from the sensory-rich environment, a quiet room is available, subject to availability. Fans can request access to these resources at Guest Services booths located at sections 114 and 311.
About Canucks Autism Network:
Founded in 2008, Canucks Autism Network (CAN) provides programs to individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, while promoting acceptance and inclusion through community engagement and training initiatives across BC and beyond. Last year, CAN delivered 708 programs across BC. One of the three major charities supported by CSE and the Canucks For Kids Fund, CAN currently supports over 9,000 individuals on the autism spectrum, and their families and relies on over 2,000 trained staff and dedicated volunteers to deliver their community-level programs.
Autism is characterized by difficulties with social communication, sensory sensitivities, and repetitive behavior, as well as a wide range of individual strengths, interests, and abilities. One of every 29 children in B.C. are on the autism spectrum. Autism is almost five times more common in boys than in girls.
For more information on the Canucks Autism Network, please visit: canucksautism.ca
For more information about tickets to this game and other Community and Fan Engagement nights, please visit canucks.com/tickets.
The following nights make up the first half of the Canucks season Community Nights:
- Diwali Night, November 15 vs the New York Islanders, presented by Rogers
- Autism Acceptance Night, November 20 vs the San Jose Sharks
- Hockey Fights Cancer, November 28 vs Anaheim Ducks
- First Nations Celebration Night, December 5 vs New Jersey Devils, presented by Rogers
- Armed Forces Night, December 9 vs Carolina Hurricanes, presented by Cavendish
- Roberto Luongo Ring of Honour Night, December 14 vs Florida Panthers, presented by TD
- Holiday Season Celebration, December 23 vs San Jose Sharks, presented by Canadian Tire
- Pride Night, January 18 vs Arizona Coyotes, presented by Stanley Park Brewing
- Lunar New Year, January 27 vs Columbus Blue Jackets, presented by TD
