Autism is a lifelong condition that affects every 1 in every 110 children born. Due to the escalating incidence of autism, the United Nations declared April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day.
To address the poor understanding of autism amidst the disturbing escalating incidence of this condition, in 2011 48 countries took part in the global “Light It Up Blue” campaign led by Autism Speaks (USA). Iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Niagra Falls and the Sydney Opera House, as well as prominent businesses such as the Trump Towers, all changed their external lighting to blue for the 1st and 2nd April. (www.lighitupblue.org)
Autism South Africa will be joining the international “Light It Up Blue” initiative in commemoration of the UN declared World Autism Awareness Day on 2nd April as every hour a child that will develop autism is being born in South Africa.
To raise the profile and acknowledge those with autism, Autism South Africa as a result of wonderful sponsorship from DAWOOD, will be lighting up Table Mountain Blue from 1st to 4th April. Primedia Outdoor, Sasol, Sandton City and University of the Free State as well as other organisations will also be “lighting up blue” whilst Toys R Us will sponsor the distribution of autism-specific brochures”.
Autism South Africa is also encouraging those affected by autism, their families and friends to motivate local businesses, shops, places of worship, schools etc across the country to put blue filters on their external lights, or to use blue light bulbs for the first week of April or to have a blue civvies day. Autism Puzzle Ribbons are available from our offices.
Lack of awareness of autism results in children receiving a late diagnosis thus wasting vital early intervention time that will adversely affect their prognosis. Physical and mental abuse is commonly found in the lives of undiagnosed children with autism as their family or community members believe these children are “possessed”, “damaged”, defiant or badly behaved etc.
To maximise the effects for the children and adults with autism in our country, alongside “Lighting it Up Blue”, through all forms of media, it is vital that we discuss and publicise the warning signs and manifestations of autism.
For more information about autism, the work of Autism South Africa, including the Light It Up Blue Campaign, please visit www.autismsouthafrica.org or call 011 484 9909
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