Interstate Connections – April Newsletter

Disability Justice, Access & Independence in the Greater Northwest

April 2nd is World Autism Acceptance Day, kicking off Autism Acceptance Month. While most people are generally aware of autism, a major problem facing people and their families who live with autism is a lack of acceptance and understanding. Autism Acceptance Month was created to change the conversation around autism, shifting it away from stigmatizing “autism awareness” language that presents autism as a threat to be countered with vigilance. In contrast, autism acceptance emphasizes that autistic people belong — that we deserve welcoming communities, inclusive schools and workplaces, and equal opportunities.