Today, June 18 is being observed in several countries around the world as Autistic Pride Day. This is an initiative by the Aspies for Freedom movement in an effort to recognize and celebrate the innate potential of all people, including those on the autism spectrum. Groups like the
Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN) strive for acceptance, not just awareness.
The following
quote explains what the movement hopes to achieve through the series of events all over the world.
Autistic pride asserts that autistic people have a unique set of characteristics that provide them many rewards and challenges. Although autism is an expression of neurodiversity, some people promoting Autistic pride believe that some of the difficulties that they experience are as the result of societal issues. For instance, campaigns to gain funding for autism related organizations promote feelings of pity. Researchers and people with high-functioning autism have contributed to a shift in attitudes away from the notion that autism is a deviation from the norm that must be treated or cured, and towards the view that autism is a difference rather than a disability.
The movement has gained support from many self-advocates all over the world. Themes from previous celebrations include "Acceptance, not cure," "Celebrate Neurodiversity," "Autistics Speak. It's time to listen," "Perspectives, not fear" and "Recognize, Respect, Include." The movement also pushes for the involvement and consultation of self-advocates in matters related to autism policy -- "Nothing about us, without us," as they say.
Read about the
Autism Acceptance Project and ASPs
1Pangako Campaign.
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