April is Autism Acceptance Month
April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to celebrate the contributions of Texans with autism and honor the value of inclusive communities.
Initially known as Autism Awareness Month, autistic advocates over the past decade have encouraged a shift in focus from awareness to acceptance. The change might seem small, but it’s an important reflection of what many autistic people say: they want to be included, not just recognized.
Autism awareness is also more widespread than before. Thirty years ago, parents of autistic children often found themselves explaining the basics of autism to doctors, teachers, and others. As one mother of an autistic adult recently told our Council: “No one knew what autism was.”
Today, most people are aware of autism, at least to some degree. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that among 8-year-old children in the U.S., 1 in 31 is autistic. This means most classrooms across the country likely have one or more autistic students. We now see popular TV shows that follow young adults with autism as they date and hope to find love. The term “sensory room” is widely recognized. The Mattel company has even launched its first autistic Barbie (with accessories!).
While these examples are all positive changes, Autism Acceptance Month reminds us that meaningful inclusion needs more than awareness. This month, we invite you to join us in shifting from simply acknowledging autism to advocating for system changes that can improve the lives of autistic people everywhere.
Get Involved
There are many ways to embrace autism acceptance and find resources this month. We’ve gathered a few stand-out options.
Share Our Informational One-Pager with Your Community Leaders
TCDD has created a simple one-pager with information about autism acceptance, support, and policy here in Texas. Share this information with your community and representatives to increase understanding among state leadership.
Brush Up on Real-World Advocacy
The Arc of the United States has provided a guide to autism acceptance, including real-world examples of how family members, educators, co-workers, and health providers can accept and support people with autism.
Check Out an Autism Acceptance Toolkit
Autism Acceptance Materials: The Autism Society of Texas developed a toolkit for schools and community members to raise awareness and support for people with autism. The toolkit includes shareable resources in both English and Spanish.
Attend a Workforce Preparation Webinar
On Wednesday, April 29, the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Children’s Autism Program is hosting a webinar on Helping Learners Prepare for the Workforce. This webinar is geared towards caregivers and professionals. It will guide you on assessment and intervention approaches to prepare learners with autism for employment.
Access Free Resources
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention created a toolkit of resources for people with Autism and their communities. The toolkit provides resources for transitioning into adulthood, early identification, accessing services, and more.
Acceptance and inclusion for people with autism is a year-round goal. This month is a reminder that all Texans have the chance to reach their aspirations when communities embrace differences, support individual needs, and encourage excellence
