The United Nations has recognized today’s date as World Autism Day since 2007, saying their goal is to spread awareness of the disability, which affects development and, according to the Centers for Disease Control, can be found in 1 out of 88 children, a number which has risen just in the past couple of years.
“Autism is not limited to a single region or a country; it is a worldwide challenge that requires global action,” UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in a written statement.
Spreading awareness of autism will not only help families of affected children understand what to expect, it will make it easier for schools and child care centers to adapt their programs for children with special needs. And just as importantly, it will bring attention to the fact that children with autism are subject to cruel bullying–almost 63%, according to a CBS news report.
People took to Twitter today to help spread the word:
It’s #WorldAutismAwarenessDay. Here’s a conversation with the amazing Temple Grandin: http://t.co/tMbcJxp1 @autismspeaksCAN @AutismOptimism
Today is World Autism Day…Let’s find the REAL cause of Autism..This is where I will put my time & money..not on the drugs, but #THECAUSE
“I am different, not less.” — Temple Grandin. Spread the word that today is World Autism Awareness Day. #WAAD Please RT.
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