Inclusive Acadian Day Celebrations Launch in Riverview, N.B.

Celebrating Acadian heritage took a new direction on July 7, 2023, in Riverview, New Brunswick, with the launch of a sensory-friendly event tailored for neurodivergent individuals. Marie-Pier Leroux, a social worker and project assistant at the Autism Resource Centre, spearheaded this initiative, aiming to create an inclusive atmosphere for those who often find traditional celebrations overwhelming.

Traditional Acadian Day festivities, known as Quinzou in French, typically involve large crowds, loud music, and vibrant interactions. For many, such environments can be daunting, particularly for neurodivergent individuals. “It’s either the lights, the noise, and people are hugging each other,” Leroux explained. “The idea came to me that maybe we should have something more sensory-friendly for other neurodivergent people that want to celebrate.”

The inaugural event provided a calm space where lights were dimmed and music was kept at a low volume. Attendees engaged in various quiet activities, including Acadian-themed colouring pages, word searches, temporary tattoos, and board games. A designated area equipped with sensory aids like noise-cancelling headphones offered participants a retreat when needed. Leroux reported that seven individuals pre-registered for the event, but there was interest from across New Brunswick for similar celebrations in other communities.

“Whatever heritage you have, I think it’s important to celebrate it because it’s part of who you are,” Leroux stated. “The Acadians have been through so much that it deserves to be celebrated, and it deserves to be a safe space for everybody.”

Community Response and Future Plans

The event also highlighted the importance of adapting cultural traditions to be more inclusive. Neurodivergent Acadian artist Céleste Godin expressed their support for Leroux’s initiative, noting the intense sensory experiences often associated with Acadian celebrations. Godin will kick off the tintamarre, a traditional march where participants make noise, in Moncton on the same day. They shared their strategies for managing sensory overload during such events, like using visual aids instead of loud noise makers.

“The tintamarre is a super sensory intense environment; it’s really loud, there are hugs everywhere, and there’s noise all around, so it can be overwhelming sensory-wise,” Godin said. Their perspective emphasizes the necessity for celebrations that cater to diverse sensory needs.

Marie-Julie Bourque, who coordinates Acadie Rock, Moncton’s Acadian Festival, indicated that organizers are considering incorporating sensory aids such as earplugs and headphones in future events. This suggests a growing recognition within the community of the importance of making cultural celebrations accessible to everyone.

The positive response to the sensory-friendly Acadian Day in Riverview reflects a broader movement towards inclusivity. As communities continue to celebrate their heritage, initiatives like Leroux’s provide a framework for ensuring that everyone can participate in ways that are comfortable and enjoyable.