Acadian Day Celebrations Adapted for Neurodivergent Individuals

Acadian Day celebrations took a new direction this year with an inclusive event designed for neurodivergent individuals, addressing sensory challenges often faced during traditional festivities. The initiative was led by Marie-Pier Leroux, a social worker and project assistant at the Autism Resource Centre in Riverview, N.B.. Leroux, who is autistic, recognized that the typical large gatherings and loud music of Acadian Day can be overwhelming for many.

In response, the centre hosted its first sensory-friendly Acadian Day, also known as Quinzou, which featured a calming environment aimed at making the celebration more accessible. “It’s very much just a safe space for people to hang out where the lights will be dimmed and the music won’t be too loud and people won’t be making as much noise,” Leroux explained.

The event included a tent equipped with sensory aids such as noise-cancelling headphones and provided quiet activities like Acadian-themed colouring pages, word searches, temporary tattoos, and board games. Participants were required to register in advance to ensure a manageable group size. Leroux reported that seven individuals signed up for the event, with many inquiries from across the province regarding similar initiatives in other communities.

Leroux emphasized the importance of celebrating heritage. “Whatever heritage that you got, I think it’s important to celebrate it because it’s part of who you are,” she stated. She acknowledged the resilience of the Acadian people, noting, “The Acadians have been through so much that it deserves to be celebrated, and it deserves to be a safe space for everybody.”

The celebrations in Moncton also featured Céleste Godin, a neurodivergent Acadian artist who led the tintamarre, a traditional Acadian march where participants make noise in celebration. Godin described the tintamarre as a “super sensory intense environment,” filled with loud sounds and enthusiastic interactions, which can be overwhelming for many. They expressed support for Leroux’s initiative, sharing their own adaptations for sensory challenges. “Instead of a noise maker, I’ll do a visual thing. I’ll bring a fan or blow some bubbles, and that way it’s a little less loud in my little bubble,” Godin explained.

The Acadie Rock festival in Moncton is also considering incorporating sensory aids into future celebrations. According to Marie-Julie Bourque, who coordinates the festival, the organizers are exploring options such as earplugs and headphones to create a more inclusive atmosphere.

This pioneering approach to Acadian Day demonstrates a growing recognition of the need for inclusive celebrations that cater to the diverse experiences of all individuals, particularly those who are neurodivergent. By creating sensory-friendly environments, organizers like Leroux and Godin are paving the way for a more inclusive approach to cultural celebrations, ensuring that everyone can participate in and enjoy the rich heritage of the Acadian community.