2021 Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month Proclamation

Browse Search

Boil Y ToWn of lextngton, 0.amgatbuattz ► a SELECT BOARD OFFICE I 1 PROCLAMATION Whereas: autism spectrum disorder (ASD) ("autism") is a developmental disability that can cause significant social,communication and behavioral challenges;and Whereas: autism can cause challenges with verbal and nonverbal communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors, and can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic background;and Whereas: autism is often accompanied by medical conditions that impact quality of life;and Whereas: people with ASD may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from neurotypical people. The learning, thinking, and problem-solving abilities of people with ASD can range from gifted to severely challenged with varying needs for support;and Whereas: the prevalence of autism in the United States is l in 54 children according to estimates from CDC's Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring(ADDM)Network;and Whereas: children and adults with autism are our family members,friends,neighbors,and co-workers; and Whereas: each individual with autism is unique,with their own talents and qualities;and Whereas: individuals with autism benefit from specialized services and community support to ensure their health and safety and full participation in community life;and Whereas: individuals with autism,families,professionals,and community members are supported through connections with others and the sharing of resources;and Whereas: the resilience of families and individuals with autism is strengthened through support; and Whereas: we value what is important to people with autism and their families,who are striving to live everyday lives;and Whereas: positive outcomes increase for individuals with autism when training is provided to professionals across all systems,including those in justice,healthcare,and emergency response settings;and Whereas: the aims for Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month are to inform our community about both the potential and needs of people with autism and to stress the importance of early diagnosis and early intervention,as well as the importance of providing appropriate supports that continue through adulthood; and Whereas: Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month is an opportunity to acknowledge educators specializing in effective teaching strategies,and to celebrate the many achievements of adolescents, students,and adults with autism. NOW, THEREFORE, WE, THE SELECT BOARD of the Town of Lexington, Massachusetts, do hereby proclaim the month of April to be recognized annually as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month in the Town of Lexington and pledge our support and encouragement to all those affected by autism.