June 18th of Every year is celebrated as the Autistic Pride Day to create awareness about Autism and to create space for the people with autism to be themselves and celebrate their neurodiversity and differences. In 2005, the first autistic pride day was celebrated in Brazil by the Aspies for Freedom(AFF) created by Gareth & Amy Nelson and became a global event.
A rainbow infinity symbol is used to represent neurodiversity which symbolises the infinite possibilities in the lives of autistic people.
Need for Autistic Pride Day:
Autism people are often subjected to physical and mental abuse.To educate all other people about to support the autistic people to enjoy their basic human rights includes education and opportunities to participate in community events .
Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD):
The Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD) refers to a condition ranging from impaired social behaviour, communication and language and a small range of unique interests and activities carried out by the individual.ASD in a child is caused by various factors including environmental and genetic factors.
Benefits of Neurodiversity:
- Different approaches to situations and think “outside of the box”
- Strong abilities in computer programming and mathematics
- musical abilities
- High attention to details
- skills in art, design and creativity
WHO on ASD:
i.The World Health Assembly(WHA) adopted the resolution “Comprehensive and coordinated efforts for the management of autism spectrum disorders(ASD)” in May 2014 for the member nations to collaborate with WHO to strengthen the national capacities to address ASD and other developmental disorders.
ii.WHO provides guidance to create policies and action plans to support ASD.
iii.WHO in consultations with experts, parent’s association and organisations, developed a Parent Skills Training Package for caregivers for children with development disorders which is currently under field testing.
About WHO:
The World Health Assembly(WHA) is the decision making body of the WHO which determines the policies of the organisation and appoints the Director General.
Director General– Dr.Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Headquarters– Geneva, Switzerland
