April is Autism Awareness Month. You are supposed to “light it up blue” for Autism Awareness.
But here is the thing: I don’t care if you wear a blue shirt or buy a blue light bulb for your front porch. I’m pretty sure that most people are “aware” of autism. I want more than awareness. I want understanding, tolerance and inclusion. I want less discrimination and more opportunities.
You may be asking yourself: “What can I do to help?” Well, “lighting it up blue” is awesome; it shows that you are aware, but it isn’t going to help anything.
Is there a kid in your child’s class who never gets invited to play dates? Do you know a parent of an autistic child who needs respite? Are there disabled adults in your workplace who eat lunch alone?
There are so many ways that you can make a difference in someone’s life. Let’s work together to make positive changes — and sure, wear a blue shirt while doing it.
— Jennifer Patronas
Eagle River
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