Autism Awareness 24-7

Autism Awareness 24-7

April is recognized worldwide as Autism Awareness Month. This is a time of great anticipation and reflection as families and organizations consider a life without barriers for people on the autism spectrum. As we focus on celebratory events highlighting the achievements of the autism movement, we must not forget those on the spectrum who are mired in a sea of ​​despair, frustration, and lack of access to jobs and adequate healthcare. In this sense, autism becomes the focus for millions every day. Their reality is full of roadblocks that serve as reminders that the all-inclusive, discrimination-free society we dream of has not come full circle. For parents and caregivers in the trenches, April seems like just another month as it's difficult to distinguish one unfulfilled promise from another. For too many, autism awareness is a harsh perpetual cycle.

We can all be happy in some way about the progress made so far regarding autism. Families gather to marvel at their daughter performing in her first concert, despite an earlier prognosis that she would never go. The teachers are amazed at the musical prodigy as he performs Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata almost effortlessly. This talent comes from a young man whose parents were told to look for “behavior options” because he would never fit into society. The world rejoices when an individual overcomes enormous odds on the path to success - regardless of those on the autism spectrum. For those within the autism community, awareness is not an event limited to one month of the year, but a continuum made up of laughter, tears, trials and triumphs. Some members of the autism community are aware of the full experience of autism and question the need for a month dedicated to awareness. While the concerns are legitimate, the awareness campaign shines a light on an issue that many would prefer to remain silent about. The main benefit of Autism Awareness Month is education for the rest of the world that is unfamiliar with the uniqueness of autism. Furthermore, a different and much-needed perspective regarding human potential is visible to all.

One of the encouraging trends in the world of autism is the transition of thousands of teenagers into young adults. We are witnessing the first mass group of autistic young people enter adulthood relatively quietly. However, the economic and social impact of approximately 750,000 young people on the spectrum transitioning into adulthood over the next decade is huge. The employment of these young adults is of paramount importance as the majority of autistic adults are currently either unemployed or underemployed. There are a number of companies worldwide that are actively engaged in hiring autistic adults in industries ranging from software development to testing to food service preparation. There are no restrictions on the types of jobs people on the spectrum can do. The only real limits are those imposed by members of society who may not have a clear understanding of what autism spectrum disorder means.

The real barrier for adults on the spectrum is the lack of opportunities for equality and access in the workplace. The unique perspectives and talents they offer employers need to be considered rather than discarded. It is our moral and ethical responsibility to find a way to integrate their abilities into the fabric of society - including but not limited to jobs, adequate housing and comprehensive medical care. We recognize the enormous benefits that autistic employees bring to the work environment, e.g. B. the ability to focus on a specific task, attention to detail, the ability to compartmentalize aspects of a job, and good old-fashioned loyalty. It is time to fully accept our fellow citizens and commit to the ideal of inclusion.

Inspired by George David Williams