Awareness to Acceptance: Why the Shift?
Autism Acceptance Month emerged as a response to the traditional Autism Awareness Month, propelled by advocacy groups and individuals within the autistic community. This shift from mere “awareness” to “acceptance” signifies a more profound recognition and validation of the lived experiences of autistic individuals. Here’s why this evolution took place: Autistic-led advocacy: Many autistic individuals and their allies perceive the “awareness” narrative as emphasizing deficits and challenges rather than embracing neurodiversity and celebrating the unique strengths of autistic individuals. Emphasis