April 2 marks Autism Awareness Day, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007. This date invites us to reflect on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a condition that manifests itself in various ways and where no two autistic people are alike. Despite its significant presence in society, there is still a great lack of knowledge about it, making it difficult to understand autism and its characteristics.
This day, in turn, seeks to enhance understanding and promote acceptance of people with ASD, recognizing the diversity in the human experience. This day is fundamental to building a more inclusive society, in line with the principles of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which calls for respect and inclusion of all people, including those with ASD.
UNDERSTANDING AUTISM
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurobiological condition that affects the configuration of the nervous system and brain functioning. Its main effects focus on two fundamental areas: communication and social interaction, and flexibility of thought and behavior. These characteristics mean that people on the autism spectrum may face unique challenges in communicating, interacting, and perceiving the world around them.
THE REALITY OF AUTISM IN FIGURES
- In Europe, approximately one in one hundred births results in a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- In the Spanish context, these statistics translate into more than 450,000 people on the autism spectrum.
- But to this figure is added approximately 1.5 million more people, including their families.
These figures underscore the importance of understanding and adequately addressing the needs of people with ASD and their families, as well as the need to promote awareness and inclusion in society.
MANIFESTO FOR WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY 2024
From the Web of #WorldAutismDay, they have elaborated a manifesto titled “Autism, close to you”. We consider it important to share it with all of you since it is a social need to take care of this part of society.
Autism is an invisible condition
We are often unaware that we live with autistic people, in schools or our workplaces, among others. Autistic people exist and represent a natural and essential part of the diversity of people.
In Spain, there are around 470 thousand autistic people. Therefore, on World Autism Awareness Day 2024, we want to celebrate that they are in our lives.
Autistic people have much to contribute to society. Their experiences, talents, and abilities are very valuable to all people, but they also face great challenges in participating in society on equal terms because of the barriers they encounter in their daily lives.
As a society, we need to commit to diversity and real inclusion. We need to be part of the solution to those barriers.
Some of the solutions we advocate are:
1. To end the false myths related to autism.
Each person on the autism spectrum is unique, with his or her own experiences, strengths, and challenges.
2. To encourage the participation of autistic people and their families.
We are committed to listening to and understanding the needs and aspirations of autistic people and their families. We want to foster acceptance and respect so that they can enjoy a full life.
3. Ensure that autistic persons have access to specialized public services and resources.
We call on governments and all authorities (European, national, regional, and local) to take measures to make this possible.
4. Create accessible and inclusive environments.
Only in this way can we ensure that autistic people participate in society on equal terms.
5. Improve autism identification systems.
Autism manifests itself differently in each person and is not always easy to identify.
6. Develop urgent measures to address urgent challenges.
We call for urgent measures to be developed in areas such as early care, education, bullying, independent living, and employment.
On World Autism Awareness Day, we pledge to work together to create a more inclusive world. A world where every person can grow, improve and be valued. Because every day, autism is close to us.