On March 31, 2009, the government officially closed Ontario's last three institutions for people with a developmental disability: the Huronia Regional Centre in Orillia, the Rideau Regional Centre in Smiths Falls and the Southwestern Regional Centre in Chatham-Kent.

And in doing so, we have kept our promise to end the era of institutionalization for people with a developmental disability.

It has been a long journey.

Ontario once operated 16 institutions in rural settings across the province.

But with time, attitudes started to change. Society began to see that people with a developmental disability don't need seclusion — they need opportunity.

So our government committed to closing Ontario's last three institutions by 2009.

And thanks to the cooperation and hard work of communities, agencies and families, nearly 1,000 people from these institutions are exploring new opportunities, gaining new skills and living closer to loved ones.

Today we recognize more than the closure of three buildings.

We recognize the advocates, families and friends, who showed us that people with a developmental disability could be valued neighbours, respected co-workers and dear friends.

We recognize the many agencies that provided the services and supports people with a developmental disability needed to live in the community.

We recognize the former staff of Huronia, Rideau and Southwestern Regional Centres, as well as the staff involved in closing these institutions, who served with dedication.

Finally, we recognize the people of Ontario with a developmental disability, both here and departed. We remember their legacy and honour their spirit.

Today, people with a developmental disability live in our communities. But they are not always a part of them.

So as we honour this historic milestone, let us remember that Ontario's journey is not over yet.

Let us do what we can to help people of all abilities belong. Ontario's diversity is what makes us strong.