FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Toronto, Ontario – January 19, 2023

Statement by Autism Ontario on the Passing of the Honourable David C. Onley

Autism Ontario extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of the Honourable David C. Onley, 28th Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.

We remember Mr. Onley, who served as Lieutenant Governor from 2007 to 2014, as a fierce advocate for the rights of people with disabilities and an example to all who had the great privilege of meeting him. As Vice-Regal Patron of Autism Ontario, he was present at many of Autism Ontario’s events during his tenure and always brought with him a deep personal interest that created a lasting connection with those around him.

Prior to his vice-regal duties, Mr. Onley was a broadcaster and published author. He became a television reporter at a time when people with disabilities were not routinely in the public eye, and through his example, did much to advance the cause of people with disabilities.

Out of office, he was responsible for the 2019 review of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), which found that the province was still “mostly inaccessible” and had a long way to go before the stated goal of making the province fully accessible by 2025. He also served as a member of the Accessibility Standards Advisory Council and as a member of the accessibility councils for the Rogers Centre and the Air Canada Centre.

The David C. Onley Award for Leadership in Accessibility was established in his honour in 2014.

For more information, email Autism Ontario’s media team at media@autismontario.com.