Autism advocate honoured at National Assembly for mental health reform push

Steven Atme, an autism advocate and self-taught musician, was honoured at Quebec's National Assembly Tuesday for his years advocating for people with special needs and mental health challenges — and for a formal proposal he drafted outlining legislative reform across Canada.

Atme's letter, shared with every health minister across the country, outlines five key proposals including increased housing and financial support for independent living. Ministers have already responded saying they'll consider the proposals, according to a statement from Atme.

Atme, 23, grew up unable to speak and fearful after receiving his autism diagnosis, but later became a public speaker with the message "Special People Have Dreams." He is currently studying piano at McGill Conservatory of Music and teaches both piano and acting.

"Anything you set your heart and mind to, you go for it," Atme said. "You are all loved, you're all appreciated, you truly do belong. Anybody can make that difference." He emphasized that the proposal was not just about advocating for legislative changes but about sharing his story in hopes it would inspire meaningful reform.