Aylla Joice Torres 
Moving from Surviving to Thriving
This year, April 2, marks the 17th annual World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD). Ever since the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) designated WAAD in 2007, we observe this day to ensure and advance the complete attainment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for individuals on the autism spectrum, ensuring equal treatment with the rest of society.
We have progressed from merely raising awareness to actively fostering acceptance and recognition of autistic individuals, as well as appreciating their valuable contributions to society. With the theme, “Moving from Surviving to Thriving: Autistic Individuals Share Regional Perspectives,” the 2024 observance will provide a truly global overview from the perspective of autistic people.
Autism awareness starts with you and your actions. To help create a world where autistic individuals are fully supported, championed, and celebrated, we must all work together to achieve true acceptance.
