Autism Acceptance Month takes place in April each year and is a time dedicated to promoting acceptance, understanding, and celebrating the diversity of people on the autism spectrum.
![Autism Acceptance Month](https://ideasatdom.wustl.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Autism-Acceptance-Month-1024x683.png)
The history of Autism Acceptance Month can be traced back to Autism Awareness Month, which was first designated in the 1970s to increase public knowledge about autism. Over time, the focus of the movement shifted from mere awareness to acceptance and inclusion.
The Autistic Community played a pivotal role in advocating for the shift towards Autism Acceptance Month. Autistic activists and self-advocates voiced their concerns about the negative connotations associated with autism awareness campaigns that often focus on deficits and stigmatizing portrayals.
Autism Acceptance Month aims to move beyond awareness and focuses on changing societal attitudes towards autism, recognizing the rights of autistic individuals, and promoting inclusive practices. It strives to highlight the strengths and unique perspectives of people on the autism spectrum, while advocating for equal opportunities, respect, and understanding. During this month, various events, educational activities, and initiatives are organized to foster acceptance, enhance understanding, and empower autistic individuals and their families. It is an opportunity to challenge stereotypes, promote neurodiversity, and create a more inclusive society for everyone, regardless of their neurodevelopmental differences. (National Day Calendar)
Local Events
![](https://ideasatdom.wustl.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Family-Pickleball-for-Autism-1024x358.png)
- April 2, 2024 from 5:00-8:00pm – Family Pickleball for Autism (SCC) – 1500 S. Main Street, St. Charles, MO 63303
- April 6, 2024 from 8:30am-12:30pm – Exploring the Spectrum Autism Awareness Event (SCC) – 3420 Harry S. Truman Blvd, St. Charles, MO
- April 6, 2024 from 2:30-4:00pm – Inclusive Ice Experience Day (SCC) – St. Peters Rec Plex
- April 13, 2024 – Community Autism Expo from 11:00am-1:00pm at the St. Louis County Library – Florissant Valley Branch
- April 25, 2024 – Sensory Swim for Autism Acceptance Month from 12:00-1:30pm at Goldfish Swim School – Warson Woods.
![](https://ideasatdom.wustl.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Trivia-Night-for-Autism.png)
- April 26, 2024 – Trivia Night for Autism from 7:00-10:00pm at the Jewish Community Center, St. Louis, MO
- May 4, 2024 from 11:00am-1:00pm – Best Buddies Friendship Walk (STL) at Kirkwood Park
- July 20, 2024 – 6th Annual Heroes for Autism 5K and Mile in Queeny Park, St. Louis, MO