Wear blue April 2 to honor the campaign

Since the 1970s, autism has been a concern and promoting autism awareness has become a must for the community.

In Nov. 2007, the United Nations officially designated April 2 as Autism Awareness Day and gradually April became Autism Awareness Month.

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that manifests itself in the first few years of life. It is a disorder of the nervous system that affects brain activity. Signs include avoiding social interactions, language and nonverbal communication difficulties, and repetitive and narrow behaviors, interests, and activities. Causes vary, such as genetic or environmental factors.

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated one in every 160 people in the world is diagnosed with autism. In the United States, autism affects 1 in every 110 children. People with autism encounter many difficulties in life, need proper attention to live in an equal way and develop their capacities.

This year, World Autism Awareness Month aims to raise awareness and concern for people, focusing on girls and women with autism, by spreading information about this condition.

There are many things people can do for the autism community. Reading about autism and educating people will help to increase empathy and the ability to connect with autistic people. Watching movies can be an effective way to get better understanding about autism. One option is “The Good Doctor” by David Shore. A current TV series based on a Korean drama, it is about genius surgeon Shawn Murphy who has autism and tries to find his place in society.

Blue is the main color for this campaign. Every April, many buildings, schools and landmarks shine with bright blue lights. On this day, supporters wear something blue, the color of hope.