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Autism Pride Day is celebrated on June 18. (Image: Shutterstock)
The theme of Autism Pride Day 2024, Take Off the Mask, encourages autistic people to embrace their authentic selves: their natural behaviors, preferences, and ways of interacting with the world.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects a person's ability to interact, communicate, learn, and behave with others. While many of us confuse autism with a disease, it is just a reflection of the mind, which makes autistic people a little different from others. To raise awareness about this condition, Autism Pride Day is celebrated on June 18.
The day serves as a platform to raise awareness about autism, promotes a more compassionate world for all, and highlights that people with autism are not sick, but possess unique strengths and perspectives.
So, let's take a look at the theme, history, meaning and some inspiring quotes to create an equal world for people with autism.
Autism Pride Day 2024: Theme
This year's theme, “Take Off the Mask,” encourages autistic people to embrace their authentic selves: their natural behaviors, preferences, and ways of interacting with the world.
Autism Pride Day 2024: History
The first Autism Pride Day was celebrated in Brazil in 2005 by an organization called Aspies for Freedom. However, Amy Nelson and Gareth are credited with founding the day. The day aims to raise public awareness about autism and celebrate its neurodiversity and differences. Since its inception, the day has started to gain importance in the world and has now become a global movement.
Autism Pride Day 2024: Importance
As its name suggests, Autism Pride Day has enormous importance in educating the general public about the challenges faced by people with autism and fostering a better understanding of the disorder.
This day also advocates for equal opportunities for people with autism, ensuring that people with autism have access to the same rights and privileges as their neurotypical peers.
Autism Pride Day also promotes the importance of creating an inclusive society where everyone is valued and included in all aspects of community life.
Autism Pride Day 2024: Inspirational Quotes
- “Everyone has a mountain to climb, and autism has not been my mountain, it has been my opportunity for victory.” – Raquel Barcelona
- “Autism cannot define me. “I define autism.” -Kerry Magro
- “Autism is like a rainbow. It has a light side and a darker side. But every tone is important and beautiful.” –Rosie Tennant Doran
- “Autism does not have to define a person. “Artists with autism are like anyone else: they define themselves through hard work and individuality.” –Adrienne Bailon
- “It takes a village to raise a child. “It takes a child with autism to raise awareness in the town.” –Coach Elaine Hall.
Autism Pride Day 2024: How to celebrate
- Educate yourselfLearn more about autism from credible sources, such as autistic-led organizations.
- Spread knowledgeShare positive and accurate information about autism on social media or chat with friends and family.
- Attend eventsLook for local or online events celebrating Autism Pride Day.
- Support autistic creatorsExplore and appreciate art, music, and literature created by autistic people.
- Advocate for acceptanceStand up for inclusion and challenge stereotypes about autism.
- Donate to charitiesSupport organizations that empower autistic people and their families.
- Wear the rainbow infinity symbolShow your solidarity by wearing the official Autism Pride symbol.
- Celebrate neurodiversityEmbrace the unique ways autistic people contribute to the world.
- Hear autistic voicesRead blogs, watch videos, or listen to podcasts by autistic people.
- Be kind and respectfulTreat everyone with empathy and understanding, celebrating neurodiversity in everyday interactions.
