The World Autism Awareness Day was observed on April 2, 2018. International communities took this opportunity to sensitize people about autism.
Several landmarks, institutions, buildings and monuments like the White House, the Empire State building and Niagara Falls joined the international #LightItUpBlue campaign. The QutubMinar in Delhi also lit up blue in support of the campaign.
People took to this event to help increase awareness about autism and promote acceptance of autistic individuals in the mainstream society. Many individuals wore the colour blue in support of the campaign, to raise awareness for the developmental disorder.
The colour blue ignites the spirits of the people and stands as a flag bearer of an equal community. It is emblematic of the sensitized inclusivity of the autistic community into normalized society.
The United Nations Headquarters emphasized on the significance of empowering women and girls with autism as part of its 2018 key challenges. Secretary-General AntónioGuterres said that, “On World Autism Awareness Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to promote the full participation of all people with autism, and ensure they have the necessary support to be able to exercise their rights and fundamental freedoms.”