Honoring World Autism Day During April

By:  Maura L. Johnson, LCSW, PMH-C

With spring officially underway, many of us may be planning our celebrations for upcoming holidays. While holidays such as Easter, Passover and Memorial Day Weekend may come to mind, there are also many causes one can honor this season. In 2007, the United Nations established World Autism Day on April 2, to promote understanding, acceptance, increased visibility, and support for individuals on the autism spectrum. 

     Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that often affects one's communication, social interactions, and behavior. There may also be academic issues, motor skill impairments and/or co-occurrence with other neurodivergencies, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Tourettes’ Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Neurodivergence as a descriptor is rather recent, coined in the late 1990’s by sociologist Judy Singer to challenge medicalized views of cognitive differences. Neurodiversity refers to the idea that all brain types are part of human variation, both neurotypical and neurodivergent. Neurodivergence describes individuals whose brain functions diverge from what is considered the societal “norm.”

     It’s only fitting, then, that this year’s theme for World Autism Day is “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Developmental Goals.” There will be a virtual event on Wednesday, April 2, which is available for registration via https://www.un.org/en/observances/autism-day.  More locally, you may observe various businesses “lighting it up blue” to show their support, as well as various community events and school activities. As far as local events, Azure Events will have a concert at the Children’s Museum on April 6, titled “Music from the Magic Kingdom.” On April 12, the Autism Awareness Fundraiser will take place at Patty Jo’s, an organization at 2700 Custer Road, Pittsburgh, with food, silent auction, and drink specials. The annual walk for Autism Speaks will also occur in 2025, with date TBD. These are just a few of the local activities that support the cause and present opportunities to engage further in the community. As a small gesture, consider wearing blue on April 2, while seeing what else may be available in your local community to show support.

     Wishing everyone a wonderful month ahead, with the promise of new beginnings, longer days, and warmer days ahead!