HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021 Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month Proclamation Boil
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SELECT BOARD OFFICE
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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.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we haVe set our ds and caused the seal of Lexington to be affixed herewith on the 5"of
April 2021. F z
DOUGLAS CE E,CHAIR JO N.PATO
S ANNE E. ARRY JI IAI
MARK D.SANDEEN