Beyond Blue: Embracing True Acceptance in Autism Awareness Month

As we step into April, known as Autism Awareness Month, I want to steer our focus away from just raising awareness and towards something deeper: genuine acceptance. You see, Autism isn't just a statistic—it's a part of so many lives, with 1 in 36 children being diagnosed, according to the CDC. That means chances are, you're interacting with neurodiverse individuals more often than you realize.

So, what does acceptance really mean? It means more than just wearing blue—it's about making friends with Autistic people, learning that commonly accepted language can be hurtful, and fully embracing neurodiversity. Let's create spaces where everyone's differences are not just okay, but celebrated.

To further this dialogue, it's essential to address language sensitivities. Refraining from terms like ASD (or spelling out the acronym), Asperger's, non-verbal, or high/low functioning is crucial. Instead, embracing the terms Autistic or Autism, being understanding of varying support needs, and acknowledging non-speaking individuals fosters an environment of respect and dignity.

In pushing for true acceptance, we're not just talking about it—we're living it. Let's journey together towards a world where every person feels valued, no matter their neurodiversity.