Fidelis Care’s DEI Council Recognizes Autism Awareness Month
4/24/2023
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Posted by Fidelis Care
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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
April is Autism Awareness month, it is a time to recognize and advocate for the acceptance and inclusion of individuals identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The Fidelis Care Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Council is aware of the need to support, and empower people on the autism spectrum, across all races, ethnicities, genders, and cultures. By raising awareness about ASD, we can help reduce stigma and encourage acceptance and inclusion in our communities. Throughout the month of April we encourage people to participate in this observance, whether you consider yourself an ally, have a friend or family member who has Autism, or simply want to help create a more inclusive world.
What is Autism?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes ASD as a “developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavior challenges.” People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention.
Autism impacts people and families in schools, workforces and communities around the world, according to the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network approximately 1 in 44 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder.
Participate in Autism Awareness Month
One fun and easy way to participate in Autism Awareness Month is to “Light It Up Blue!” Light it up Blue is an initiative that was introduced in 2010 by an organization called Autism Speaks, the goal is to encourage people and organizations to light their homes and buildings with blue light bulbs on World Autism Awareness Day (April 2), to show their support for the autistic community.
This initiative has grown throughout the years and is now embraced by hundreds of thousands of homes and organizations around the globe, the Fidelis Care DEI Council asks you to please show your support by lighting up your home in blue on April 2nd to show your support!
For other ideas on how you can participate in Autism Awareness month please visit Autism Speak’s FAQ page . This page outlines various ways you can participate in Autism Awareness activities and help create a more inclusive world.
For more information about Fidelis Care’s DEI council or to read about some of our other initiatives please visit https://www.fideliscare.org/About-us/DEI.
Additional Autism Resources: