Kaela Sherron

April is Autism Acceptance Month and many celebrate it through ribbons, t-shirts, and events. According to Ally Pediatric Therapy,  this theme “lets businesses, foundations, and individuals showcase their allyship and how they plan to help the cause, like focusing on human rights, accessible housing, and comprehensive long-term services for autistic people.”

This month is most commonly known as Autism Awareness Month, but the name has been changed to Autism Acceptance. They both sound similar, however, they take two different paths.

There’s a reason why there is a month dedicated to autism: understanding and supporting those with autism. A journalist from Autism Parenting Magazine, Claire Delano, explains the recent change from Autism Awareness to Autism Acceptance. Many people with autism face many struggles of life that range from bullying to limited job opportunities. She wrote, “Autistic people need awareness, acceptance, and inclusion for genuine community support.”

Since 2011, the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN) has made April “Autism Acceptance Month.” Delano continues, “ASAN emphasizes the importance of accepting autism as a natural part of the human experience to foster meaningful dialogue.” Delano cites other groups that use Autism Acceptance rather than Autism Awareness: The Association of University Centers on Disabilities, Autistic Women and Non-Binary Network, and the National Association of Councils on Development Disabilities (NACDD).

The President and CEO of the Autism Society, Christopher Banks, emphasized the importance of word choice, stating that words play a crucial role in promoting acceptance for individuals with autism. Understanding and recognizing that acceptance is a key component in building a strong support system, the Autism Society continues to raise awareness and foster understanding.

Jeremey Brown, another writer for Autism Parenting Magazine, says that the goal for Autism Acceptance Month is for the autism community to “build a larger, inclusive community for not just those on the autism spectrum, but neurotypical people as well.” Recognizing that those with autism need acceptance, it can help their self-esteem, promote inclusivity, and can promote a positive change overall. Delano says, “The shift toward Autism Acceptance Month will hopefully lead to more resources for people on the spectrum and their families, better quality of life, and a more inclusive world.” So, while this month can be referenced as Autism Awareness or Autism Acceptance Month, everyone can agree upon the notion that April is a time to celebrate diversity, unite and ignite change.