For the last several years, SLC students in the Autism and Behavioural Science (AUBS) program have engaged in a range of fundraising and public awareness activities for World Autism Awareness Day in order to draw attention to both the needs and unique abilities of people with autism and their families.
World Autism Awareness Day was April 2; due to COVID-19, most activities related to this important event were scaled back and virtual in nature. Several SLC students updated their social media profile pages by wearing blue (a symbol of support for people with autism) and by posting messages related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The AUBS students have also set up a fundraiser to help send children with ASD in the Kingston area to summer camp.
World Autism Awareness Day is recognized by the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI). The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of those with autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society. Autism is a lifelong neurological condition that manifests during early childhood, irrespective of gender, race or socio-economic status. The term Autism Spectrum refers to a range of characteristics. Appropriate support, accommodation and acceptance of this neurological variation allow those on the Spectrum to enjoy equal opportunity, and full and effective participation in society (Source).