WHEREAS, Autism is a developmental disability that typically appears during the first two years of life and continues through the individual's lifespan, but typically is not diagnosed until after 4 years of age; and
WHEREAS, 1 in 68 children are now identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), almost 5 times more boys (1 in 42) than girls (1 in 189); and
WHEREAS, There are many different characteristics in individuals with autism - delayed or deficient communication, decreased or unresponsive social interaction, unusual reaction to normal stimuli, a lack of spontaneous or imaginative play, and behavioral challenges; and
WHEREAS, There is no known cause and no known cure, however with aggressive and continuous therapy, some individuals can learn to acclimate and mask their symptoms; and
WHEREAS, Applied Behavior Analysis has become widely accepted among health care professionals and used as a treatment to improve a variety of skills; and
WHEREAS, Autism creates significant stress on the families of those affected by autism; and
WHEREAS, All individuals with autism should be included as valuable members of our community, provided with opportunities and supports to live, work and play as independently as possible; and
WHEREAS, Individuals with autism, their families, caregivers, and advocacy organizations, are striving to bring about positive changes for children and adults with autism; and
WHEREAS, Through research, training, public services, support groups, advocacy, and increased awareness, we will be more accepting, inclusive, and better equipped to support the growing number of individuals with autism and their families; and
WHEREAS, April is observed nationally as Autism Awareness Month and April 2nd has been declared World Autism Awareness Day by the United Nations General Assembly;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jay Inslee, Governor of the state of Washington, do hereby declare April 2015 as
Autism Awareness Month
in Washington State, and I urge all citizens to join me in this special observance.
Signed this 30th day of March, 2015
Jay Inslee, Governor
Autism Awareness Month 2015 Proclamation Gov. Inslee
