Autism Awareness Month

In April 1972, the Autism Society of America celebrated the first National Autistic Children’s week. Now it’s known as the Autism Acceptance Month, the period focuses on acknowledgment, inclusion, and promoting differences.

Autism spectrum disorder is a vast range of impairments in social communication and restricted or repetitive behaviors. Traits such as different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention may occur in those affected. Children born with ASD have increased drastically to everyone in 54 kids, as shown by a study in 2020. With autism rates soaring dramatically, the need to learn about and empower those on the spectrum has never been more crucial.

Organizations such as the Autism Society of America have worked to enforce autism awareness and maximize the quality of life for those with ASD. Founded in 1965 by parents with autistic children, they have made numerous accomplishments, such as their first nationwide awareness program in the early 1970s. One of its founders, Dr. Bernard Rimland, is also credited for disproving the harmful “refrigerator” mother theory claiming that autism results from poor parenting. The organization is responsible for much improvement in how the neurodevelopmental disorder is seen and handled.

Still vigorous, the Autism Society of America aims to create a safe space where the disabled can feel welcomed, not outcasted. The group has encouraged better support and opportunities in education, employment, housing, affordable health care, and long-term services for people with autism. Having achieved several feats, the organization has garnered a trusted reputation and is one of many fighting for complete autism acceptance.

However, they and myriads of others agree the name “Autism Awareness Month” does not fit its current definition. Previously used to recognize the time of spreading awareness about autism’s signs and symptoms, its title had to change as the meaning diversified. Coined by the Autism Society, the new name would be Autism Acceptance Month to solidify change and inspire inclusion.

Christopher Banks, president, and CEO of the Autism Society of America claims that acceptance is often one of the most substantial barriers to finding and developing a secure support system. With the name changed, he hopes to eradicate this barrier for people struggling with autism.

As April ends soon, autism awareness does not. It is a worldwide effort that never stops. Everyone is encouraged to spread the word and educate, and it is all generations’ responsibility to pass it on.

Written by Olivia Lessard | Graphic Designed by Olivia Lessard

Published April 28, 2022 | ePathfinder | Feature