The month of April has long been recognized as Autism Awareness month by groups all over the world. The Autism Society of America, along with local organizations including the Hub for Autism and Neurodiversity, Scholars with Diverse Abilities, LIFE Village and others, are encouraging a change in terminology from “autism awareness” to “autism acceptance.”
The slight change in words is a step in the right direction towards inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum and to improve support for opportunities in education, employment, housing, health care and long-term services.
“While we will always work to spread awareness, words matter as we strive for autistic individuals to live fully in all areas of life,” said Christopher Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America. “As many individuals and families affected by autism…