April is recognized as Autism Awareness Month around the world. This is a time of great anticipation and reflection as families and organizations muse upon life without barriers for people on the autism spectrum. While we turn our focus to celebratory events highlighting the accomplishments of the autism movement, let us not forget about those on the spectrum who are engulfed in a sea of despair, frustration, and lack of access to employment and sufficient health care. With this in mind, autism becomes the focal point for millions on a daily basis. Their reality is fraught with roadblocks which serve as reminders that the all inclusive discrimination free society we dream of has not come full circle. For the parents and caretakers in the
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Families gather to marvel at the daughter performing in her first recital despite an earlier prognostication that she would never walk. Teachers are amazed at the musical prodigy as he almost effortlessly performs Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata. This display of talent comes from a young man whose parents were advised to seek "behavioral options" as he would never fit into society. The world rejoices when an individual overcomes tremendous odds on the path to success - those on the autism spectrum notwithstanding. For those within the autism community, awareness is not an event limited to one month of the year, but a continuum made up of laughter, tears, trials, and triumphs. Being acutely aware of the full autism experience, has left some members of the autism community question the need for a month dedicated to awareness. While the concern is a valid one, the awareness campaign sheds light on a subject many would prefer remained silent. The primary benefit of Autism Awareness month is education for the rest of the world unfamiliar with the uniqueness of autism. Additionally, a different, and much needed, perspective regarding human potential is on display for all to
Families gather to marvel at the daughter performing in her first recital despite an earlier prognostication that she would never walk. Teachers are amazed at the musical prodigy as he almost effortlessly performs Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata. This display of talent comes from a young man whose parents were advised to seek "behavioral options" as he would never fit into society. The world rejoices when an individual overcomes tremendous odds on the path to success - those on the autism spectrum notwithstanding. For those within the autism community, awareness is not an event limited to one month of the year, but a continuum made up of laughter, tears, trials, and triumphs. Being acutely aware of the full autism experience, has left some members of the autism community question the need for a month dedicated to awareness. While the concern is a valid one, the awareness campaign sheds light on a subject many would prefer remained silent. The primary benefit of Autism Awareness month is education for the rest of the world unfamiliar with the uniqueness of autism. Additionally, a different, and much needed, perspective regarding human potential is on display for all to