"World Autism Awareness Day is about more than generating understanding; it is a call to action. I urge all concerned to take part in fostering progress by supporting education programmes, employment opportunities and other measures that help realize our shared vision of a more inclusive world." Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, Message for World Autism Awareness Day 2014
In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly declared April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) with the goal of bringing the world's attention to autism, a disorder that affects tens of millions globally.
The most common and easiest way you can show your support for World Autism Day on April 2 by wearing blue. In addition, you can place a blue a blue light in your window. Major cities will light up monuments or bridges. Pictured here is the amazingly impressive Niagara Falls. You and your family can sign up for a Walk Now For Autism Speaks on Saturday, May 10 at Library Park in Waterbury, Sunday, June 1 at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, or Saturday, October 25 at Camp Harkness in Waterford. Or if you like to pray, you can say a prayer for compassion and tolerance for individuals with autism and their caregivers. Through your support of the campaign, we will show the pressing need for greater public education and awareness for autism.
World Autism Awareness Day has a Facebook page and you can learn more about lighting the world blue at their website.