The United Nations (UN) General Assembly designated 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) in 2007. Since then, the UN has worked to promote the full realisation of human rights and fundamental freedoms for autistic individuals, ensuring their equal participation in society.
Here at MPCF, we prefer to say ‘Acceptance’ rather than just ‘Awareness’, as we believe that true celebration of neurodiversity requires acceptance of everyone’s differences rather than just knowing about it. In the words of an I CAN Network mentee, “Awareness means you know I’m here. Acceptance means you’re happy to see me.”
World Autism Acceptance Week is also celebrated in the week that includes the 2nd of April; in 2026, this would be the week commencing the 30th of March.
The whole of April is also known as Autism Acceptance Month.
Below are some articles and events about World Autism Acceptance Month that are on our website: