Autism Awareness Month

World Autism Awareness Day is an internationally recognized day on April 2^nd every year, encouraging member states of the United Nations to take measures to raise awareness about people with autistic spectrum disorders including autism and Asperger syndrome throughout the world. It was designated by the United Nations General Assembly through a resolution adopted on December 18 2007. (World Autism Awareness Day, Wikipedia)

Various organizations in the United States have built on this resolution to designate April of each year as Autism Awareness Month.  Some, such as the Autism Society have expanded the concept to Autism Acceptance Month.  That organization’s website states: “This April, the Autism Society of America celebrates differences as it works to build an inclusive society where individuals with autism live fully through connection and acceptance. Together, with other national autism organizations, we are leading the legislative effort for lawmakers to federally and globally designate April as Autism Acceptance Month, a shift from the commonly used phrase Autism Awareness Month. While we will always work to educate others about autism, words matter — the need for acceptance is greater than ever, as we strive for autistic individuals to live fully in all areas of life. The Autism Society understands the importance of fostering acceptance to ignite change through improved support and opportunities in education, employment, accessible housing, affordable health care and comprehensive long-term services and supports.”