For the second consecutive year, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge spanning the Missouri River between Omaha and Council Bluffs will be lit up blue for autism awareness on April 2, which is World Autism Awareness Day.
The Munroe-Meyer Institute (MMI) at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, is partnering with Autism Action Partnership (AAP) in the cross-state event. Shortly after 7 p.m., the bridge will light up blue to kick off World Autism Month. Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert and Council Bluffs Mayor Matt Walsh will both take part in the event.
The bridge will be one of a number of regional, national and international landmarks that will be lit blue on April 2. In Omaha, the Henry Doorly Zoo's Desert Dome, MMI, the Woodmen of the World Tower, and the Hope Tower and the walkways at 42nd Street and Farnam Street at UNMC, also will light up blue to mark the day.
"It's fitting that we're holding this event on a bridge," said MMI Director Karoly Mirnics, M.D., Ph.D. "This event is about reaching out, about making connections. We're proud to host the mayors of Omaha and Council Bluffs as we shine a literal light on autism and the concept of neurodiversity. We are all part of one worldwide community, and this event symbolizes how these diverse populations can come together in understanding and celebration."
Justin Dougherty, executive director of the AAP, said AAP and MMI have been working in partnership for more than a decade to leverage resources and improve the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families. "The Light It Up Blue event is a public celebration of the local autism community and also an opportunity for all citizens and businesses to show their support of the local autism community," he said. "We are very excited for our second annual event and look forward to celebrating with the entire community."
Creighton mascot Billy Bluejay will attend, as will the Unified Cheer Squads from Elkhorn South and Millard South, United Healthcare's Health E. Hound, and Stormy, the Omaha Storm Chasers' mascot.
Participants are asked to wear blue and gather either on the Nebraska or Iowa side of the bridge. Each group will meet at the center of the bridge at 7:19 p.m. for the official lighting (if the Iowa side of the bridge is closed, both groups will begin on the Nebraska side).
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