Celebrating autism — Raising awareness, challenging misconceptions

“It takes a village to raise a child. It takes a child with autism to raise the consciousness of that village.” – Elaine Hall.

Globally, it’s estimated that approximately 1 in 100 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Autism is significantly more common in boys than in girls. This skewed sex ratio has been recognised since the first cases of autism were described in the 1940s. One of the most comprehensive analyses of autism’s sex ratio, published in 2017, drew on data from 54 prevalence studies worldwide. That analysis estimated about 4.2 boys with autism for every girl.

Each story regarding autism is unique. While we must accept the similarities concerning autism, equally important are the uniqueness within this community. Many individuals with autism are misunderstood. This lack of understanding results from an overload of information, much of which contains myths and misconceptions surrounding this behavioural condition. Raising a child with autism requires patience, love and sacrifice. The support of the village concept is critical to the overall development and realisation of goals by those who are autistic. Raising a child with autism is not a sprint, but rather a marathon. This requires a lifetime of commitment and dedication in order to scaffold the autistic child. Unfortunately, many parents become frustrated due to the lack of resources or their inability to access such resources. This problematic state of affairs needs to be corrected and more support should be given to families with autistic children.

World Autism Awareness Day is an annual event that highlights the need for increased awareness and understanding of autism spectrum disorder. Autism affects millions of people worldwide, impacting their social, communication, and behavioral skills in varying degrees. The day serves as a platform to address the misconceptions and stigma surrounding autism, to promote early diagnosis and intervention, and to support the rights and well-being of individuals with autism. World Autism Awareness Day is also a time to celebrate the unique perspectives and talents that people with autism bring to their communities.

World Autism Awareness Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007 to address the growing need for awareness and support for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The day was created to promote a better understanding of autism and to advocate for the rights of individuals with autism to live full and meaningful lives. Since its inception, World Autism Awareness Day observed on April 2 has become a global movement, with activities and events taking place in countries around the world, all aimed at fostering a more inclusive and supportive society for people with autism.

The 2025 observance, under the theme Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlights the intersection between neurodiversity and global sustainability efforts, showcasing how inclusive policies and practices can drive positive change for autistic individuals worldwide and contribute to the achievement of the SDGs. This important day also brings together global experts, policymakers, and autistic voices.

Among the objectives of the Jamaica Autism Support Association (JASA) are to raise awareness about Autism in Jamaica, to assist in research on the prevalence of autism in Jamaica, to advocate for Action, Intervention, Accommodations and Solutions and to take the steps necessary to have an education system in Jamaica that is inclusive for our children.

In Jamaica, some 678 babies are born with the disorder. Autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may be described as a broad range of conditions characterised by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech, and non-verbal communication.

There are many ways to participate in World Autism Awareness Day and promote acceptance and understanding of autism:

Light it up blue: Join the global campaign to “Light It Up Blue” by wearing blue clothing or accessories, or by lighting up buildings and landmarks in blue. This symbol of solidarity helps raise awareness and show support for individuals with autism. 

Educate yourself and others: Take time to learn more about autism spectrum disorder, including the experiences of those who live with it. Share resources, books, documentaries, and personal stories to help educate your community. 

Advocate for inclusion: Support policies and initiatives that promote inclusion and accessibility for individuals with autism in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. Your advocacy is needed in order to ensure that everyone in the community has the opportunity to thrive.

On this World Autism Awareness Day, let us use the various platforms we occupy to foster a more inclusive environment for the autistic community. Let us be reminded that in showing empathy to others we are better able to understand and appreciate our own humanity.

In the words of Alex Lowery, “I may have autism, but I also have strengths and abilities that make me who I am.”

Wayne Campbell is an educator and social commentator with an interest in development policies as they affect culture and/or gender issues.