World Autism Awareness Day 2010

A series of events took place in New York City to commemorate World Autism Awareness Day, April 2, 2010.

For more information about World Autism Awareness Day and listings of events from around the world, please visit www.worldautismawarenessday.org.

See media highlights of World Autism Awareness Day

Light It Up Blue
Light It Up Blue

To see how people around the world are Lighting It Up Blue for autism awareness, visit lightitupblue.org.
The White House
Presidential Statement

President Barack Obama made a statement on April 2 in support of World Autism Awareness Day. He applauded the many contributions of individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Read the full statement.

World Autism Awareness Day Reception
On March 31, Autism Speaks hosted a reception to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day. Attendees from 12 countries were on hand to hear an announcement from the World Health Organization, view a message from United Nations Secretary-General Mr. Ban Ki-moon, and see a special tribute to Yoko Ono Lennon.
New York Stock Exchange Opening Bell
NYSE Opening Bell

The third annual World Autism Awareness Day was celebrated a bit early on April 1 at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Euronext locations around the world. In New York, Autism Speaks supporters rang the opening bell at the NYSE. Autism Speaks was proud to partner with Autism-Europe and NYSE Euronext in the first-ever global bell ringing with member autism organizations opening or closing the trading day in Amsterdam, Brussels, Lisbon and Paris.
Empire State Building Lighting Ceremony
Empire State Building Lights It Up Blue
Autism Speaks Co-founders Bob and Suzanne Wright joined Bravo's Top Chef Host and Executive Chef Tom Colicchio at a "flip the switch" lighting ceremony at the Empire State Building as the world famous building participated the inaugural Light It Up Blue campaign.
Lindt Award Ceremony
"Lindt Unsung Heroes of Autism" Awards Reception

Lindt & Sprüngli, the world's leading producer of premium chocolate, and Autism Speaks kicked off Autism Awareness Month with an event at the New York Palace Hotel, honoring and recognizing three "Lindt Unsung Heroes of Autism."
Toronto skyline
World Autism Awareness Day Activities with Autism Speaks Canada
Canada joined the world in
honouring the autism community
on World Autism Awareness Day with buildings lit up blue, awareness nights with major sports teams, and activities in Parliament.
Areva Martin
Areva Martin - The Everday Advocate

Mom, lawyer and advocate Areva Martin discussed her new book The Everyday Advocate: Standing Up for Your Child with Autism at the United Nations and Borders in New York City.