World Autism Day Celebrated At Limestone University On Monday, April 3

Sponsored by Educators Rising, Limestone University hosted a World Autism Awareness Day event on Monday, April 3, on the first floor of the Hines & Riggins Center.

The event was a place for students, staff, and faculty to get more information and pledge their support for people with autism. The organizers asked that people wear blue to the event, if possible.

World Autism Awareness Day is celebrated on April 2 each year, and 2023 marks the 16th annual event sanctioned by the United Nations.

This year, advocates are moving away from the narrative of curing or converting autistic people, instead advocating for their rights and enabling autistic people to re-claim their dignity and self-esteem. The goal is to have autistic people become fully integrated and valued members of their families and societies.

Educators Rising is a student-run organization that is looking to cultivate a new generation of highly skilled educators by guiding young people on a path from high school through college and into their teaching careers. By working with aspiring educators who reflect the demographics of their communities and who are passionate about serving those communities through public education, Educators Rising is changing the face of teaching. It hopes to create a clear pathway in every school district in America for young people who want to serve their communities as highly skilled educators.

Autism is one of the special needs that Limestone University Educators Rising members want to educate others about, 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.