April 2, 2009: World Autism Awareness Day

On December 18, 2007, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution making April 2 World Autism Awareness Day.

In his message, the Secretary-General stated: "On this day, the United Nations reaffirms its commitment to the rights and well-being of people with disabilities-a commitment rooted in our fundamental principle of universal human rights for all... Let us pay tribute to the courage of children with autism and their families, as they strive every day to confront the disability with a powerful combination of determination, creativity and hope. Let us empower them and respond to their needs today, so as to make our societies more accessible, enabling and empowering for all our children tomorrow."

Access ASHA resources on autism

• Autism Overview
• Autism: Causes and Number
• Autism: Benefits of Speech-Language Pathology Services
• Speech-Language Pathology Practice Packet: Autism (members-only)
• Children's Books About Autism
• Communication Facts: Special Populations: Autism - 2008 Edition

ASHA Practice Policy Documents

• Principles for Speech-Language Pathologists in Diagnosis, Assessment, and Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders Across the Life Span
• Roles and Responsibilities of Speech-Language Pathologists in Diagnosis, Assessment, and Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders Across the Life Span
• Knowledge and Skills Needed by Speech-Language Pathologists for Diagnosis, Assessment, and Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders Across the Life Span
• Guidelines for Speech-Language Pathologists in Diagnosis, Assessment, and Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders Across the Life Span