Autism Acceptance Month Proclamation

March 31, 2025 | by sau1admin

April is Autism Acceptance Month! Attached please find a proclamation from Governor Josh Shapiro recognizing and celebrating the diverse nature and qualities of individuals with Autism. Image Description: Autism Acceptance Month 2025 Proclamation, signed by Governor Josh Shapiro and including the Seal of the Governor.

The proclamation reads: Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania Proclamation By The Governor

Whereas, anyone can be affected by autism, regardless of race, religion, socioeconomic status, or geography; and children and adults with autism are our family members, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and students; and

Whereas, autism affects 1 in 36 children, with over 55,000 individuals in Pennsylvania and more than 5.4 million people in total in the United States; and

Whereas, each individual with autism carries a unique diagnosis across the spectrum and has distinctive skills, characteristics, and qualities; and

Whereas, research shows that early intervention can improve a child's development and individualized support provided by trained professionals can lead to better outcomes for individuals and caregivers; and

Whereas, individuals with autism may benefit from specialized services and community support to ensure their health and safety and successful participation in community life; and

Whereas, people with autism, families, professionals, and community members are supported through connecting with others in a variety of settings and the sharing of resources, including through access to ASERT initiatives such as the Statewide Resource Center, and #ASDNext; and

Whereas, the aim for Autism Acceptance Month is to recognize the diverse nature and abilities of people with autism and to encourage support through family, friends, professionals, and community that will allow a broader understanding and appreciation of those individuals.

Therefore, I, Josh Shapiro, Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, do hereby proclaim April 2025 to be Autism Acceptance Month. I encourage all Pennsylvanians to provide their support in furthering autism awareness and acceptance.

Given under my hand and the Seal of the Governor, at the City of Harrisburg, this twenty-ninth day of February two thousand twenty-five, the year of the Commonwealth the two hundred forty-ninth.

Governor Josh Shapiro