Autism Acceptance Month (AAM) occurs every April and aims to recognize the importance of supporting, understanding, accepting, including, and empowering people on the autism spectrum. Autism is a bio-neurological developmental disability that generally appears before age three and looks different for each person. Recently, autism has been named the fastest-growing developmental disorder.
Fast Facts:
- It’s estimated that 1 in 44 children have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in the US. (CDC)
- 1% of the total world’s population has been diagnosed with ASD, which is around 75 million people. (CDC)
- Roughly 40% of children with Autism do not speak. (National Autism Association)
- Boys are 4x more likely to have autism than girls. (CDC)
Why Support AAM?
Those with autism need acceptance to thrive. Acceptance can lead to more significant impacts such as promoting awareness, becoming more inclusive, and creating strong support systems. It can also help improve ongoing issues regarding education, employment, health care, housing, and more for those with autism.
One of the greatest things we can do as a society is advocate for our friends and family members with autism. It is important to share their voices and stories of overcoming adversity. Together, let’s celebrate people with autism–their strengths, talents, and outstanding contributions to society.
Dara McAnulty, a young autistic author, said, “Many people accuse me of ‘not looking autistic.’ I have no idea what that means. I know lots of ‘autistics,’ and we all look different. We are not some recognizable breed. We are human beings. If we’re not out of the ordinary, it’s because we’re fighting to hide our real selves.”
Ways to Show Your Support:
- Wear blue on World Autism Acceptance Day, April 2, 2023.
- Read, watch, or listen to content created by people with autism.
- The Summer Shirt Project:
This company is ran by parents who have an autistic daughter. Although this was a summer project to help her develop job skills, it has now turned into a fun, family adventure. They aim to create a positive and more inclusive world that provides opportunities for everyone! Check out their website and follow their journey on TikTok!
- Follow Queballa on TikTok:
Check out this father/son duo as they dance to celebrate and bring awareness to autism!
- Educate yourself on common myths surrounding autism.
- Spread Kindness. 🙂
