Subject
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Proclamation Declaring April 2024, as Autism Acceptance Month
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Recommendation
Staff recommends Mayor and Council read and approve the proclamation.
Discussion
April is Autism Acceptance Month. The month recognizes and spreads awareness for the rights of people with autism. The condition typically starts during childhood and continues into adulthood. The Autism Acceptance Month theme is “Celebrate Differences.” The color of Autism Acceptance Month is Blue, and it is associated with calmness and acceptance. We raise awareness to promote autism acceptance to celebrate each individual’s unique differences, and to foster inclusivity and connectedness.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the result of a neurological disorder that is estimated to affect more than three million people and one in sixty-eight children in the United States. ASD occurs among all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. Boys are 4.3 times more likely to be identified with ASD than girls. This is because girls “often go undiagnosed because they don’t fit autism stereotypes and they mask symptoms better than boys do,” according to the Child Mind Institute. There is no better way to celebrate this day than by becoming aware of the characteristics of people with this condition and how all of us can do better to increase our own understanding and promote kindness.
It is estimated to be the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States by the Centers for Disease Control and Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network. The Centers for Disease Control tracks the number and characteristics of children with ASD, and researches what puts children at risk for ASD and promotes early identification.
Facts:
• Autism Spectrum Disorder is the result of a neurological disorder affecting more than three million people and affects one in sixty-eight children in the United States.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder is estimated to be the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States by the Centers for Disease Control and Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network.
• There are multiple organizations dedicated to empowering the community and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families, and to help promote awareness and acceptance, including: The Arc Montgomery County <https://thearcmontgomerycounty.org/>, Main Street <https://mainstreetconnect.org/>, Makom <https://www.makomlife.org/>, Madison House Autism Foundation <https://madisonhouseautism.org/>, and Sunflower Bakery <https://www.sunflowerbakery.org/>.
• The City of Rockville promotes inclusion in recreation programs by involving parents and caregivers in planning that focuses on participants’ strengths and incorporating program modifications that allow children with autism to share activities and experiences with other participants.
Mayor and Council History
The Mayor and Council annually recognize and proclaim Autism Awareness Month.