June 18 is Autistic Pride Day

Autistic Pride Day is celebrated annually around the world on June 18. This day encourages autistic people to embrace their unique brains and to make connections with other autistic people! 

The LWWRC celebrates autistic brains with blog posts and resources for both Autism Acceptance Day  and Neurodiversity Celebration Week. However, Autistic Pride Day is more than sharing resources—it’s about turning to autistic people and giving them space to take the lead in sharing their stories and controlling their narrative. Check out two of our more recent blog posts written by autistic collaborators who share their experiences: Indigenous and Autistic: Nothing About Us Without Us and Navigating University with Autism Spectrum Disorder. 

This day encourages people around the world to foster autism acceptance rather than mere awareness. In focusing on pride, we are giving space to the unique strengths, skills, and experiences of autistic people rather than feeding into stereotypes and misconceptions. A focus on celebrating unique brains motivates change for further accessibility in work, schools, and larger society.  

Here are some things you can do to celebrate Autistic Pride Day! 

  1. Share and promote stories and resources directly from autistic people. 

  1. Do your own research into the different experiences of autistic people so that you can accept their unique brains, rather than simply being aware of them.  

  1. Promote events that foster autistic connections so that people can share their pride. 

  1. Talk about it and encourage open communication about autism and the ways we can advocate for autistic needs moving forward.