WAM Advocacy Resources
Every April, Autism Speaks and other autism organizations recognize World Autism Month to raise awareness and acceptance of the 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults with autism in the US. This occasion begins with United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2. Throughout the month, we focus on sharing stories and providing opportunities to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism, fostering worldwide support.
We invite all elected officials to join individuals across the country in promoting autism awareness and acceptance on social media.
Our Request: Record and post a 30-second video clip acknowledging World Autism Month and voicing your support of people with autism and their families. Alternatively, you can use one or more of our graphics in a social media post. You can also post a picture wearing blue or wearing an Autism Speaks puzzle piece pin.
In this spirit of increasing understanding and acceptance, we also encourage you to download an Autism Resource Guide for you to save and share with constituents who may contact you seeking autism support and services.
Graphics & Resources
(pictured to the right)
Logos
Template Script/Post
Suggested Video Script: Today, I am recognizing World Autism Month by promoting greater understanding and acceptance of people with autism and their families. I am proud to represent the 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults with autism in the United States and will continue to work to create a world where every person with autism can reach their full potential! [Mention any personal connection to autism and/or support for Autism Speaks’ work on behalf of the autism community.]
Suggested Social Posts:
- This #WorldAutismMonth, I'm pledging my support for the autism community to create a world where all people with autism can reach their full potential. Will you stand together with me? autismspeaks.org/WAM
- In honor of #WorldAutismMonth, I join @autismspeaks in pledging to increase understanding and acceptance to create a world where all people with autism can reach their full potential.
Handles to Tag: @autismspeaks or @autismvotes
Hashtags to Use: #WorldAutismMonth or #LightItUpBlue
You can also mention autism specific initiatives that you support in your video or post. For members of Congress, this may include:
- Congressional Autism Caucus Membership
- Support for increased federal funding of autism research and services (Sign-ons to the House FY24 LHHS appropriations letter).
- Autism Family Caregivers Act which would provide caregivers of children with autism and developmental disabilities or delays with evidence-based strategies to improve the mental and physical well-being of their children.
- HEADs UP Act would designate people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) as a Medically Underserved Population to help achieve better health outcomes by improving access to behavioral, medical and dental care for people with I/DD.